Philadelphia Priest Returned to Ministry, Despite Unspecified Violation

The Rev. Joseph DiGregorio has been returned to ministry, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia said Monday, despite the fact that DiGregorio committed an unspecified act more than 40 years ago that the archdiocese now says violated its Standards of Ministerial Behavior and Boundaries. DiGregorio, who has spent most of his career as an Army chaplain, was nonetheless cleared to return to ministry because of “compelling evidence”—also unspecified—”that makes him suitable for ministry.” Church officials declined to offer details, saying they wanted to “protect individuals involved in this matter.” “There is no evidence that he poses a danger to children and there is no indication he had or would engage in a pattern of behavior that would necessitate his removal from ministry,” Archbishop Charles Chaput said in a statement. DiGregorio was one 26 priests suspended following a scathing grand jury report that led to the conviction of Monsignor William Lynn on charges of covering up child molestation cases.  [Catholic Philly]