Braintree, MA (July 19, 2011) - The Archdiocese of Boston today announced that the Holy See has determined that William M. Walsh is no longer in the clerical state. William Walsh sought, through a voluntary process, to be removed from the clerical state. As a result of the Holy Sees decisions, he may no longer function in any capacity as a priest, with the exception of offering absolution to the dying.
William Walsh, ordained in 1971, has been on an administrative leave of absence since 2004. He was removed from active ministry after allegations were made that he sexually abused a minor in the early 1970s.
In addition to announcing the Holy Sees decisions, Cardinal Sen P. OMalley expressed his continued care and concern for all persons impacted by the painful reality of sexual abuse of children and young people by clergy. Cardinal Sen also encouraged any person in need of pastoral assistance or support to contact the Archdioceses Office of Pastoral Support and Outreach by calling (781) 794-2581.
About the Archdiocese of Bostons Child Protection Efforts
Since his installation, Cardinal SeEn has made it a priority to create safe environments in the Archdioceses churches and schools and to continue to support all people impacted by clergy sexual abuse. The policies and practices of the Archdiocese include working with law enforcement agencies and community professionals to report and investigate instances of sexual abuse, annually screening approximately 60,000 clergy, employees and volunteers, and implementing effective prevention training programs. In addition, through the Office of Pastoral Support and Outreach (OPSO), the Archdiocese continues to reach out to those who have been harmed by the tragic reality of clergy sexual abuse in order to provide pastoral help and counseling services to survivors and their families.