Archdiocese of Philadelphia reaction to sexual abuse charges

 

February 9, 2011

News Release from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office of Catholic Education

Today, Wednesday, February 9, 2011, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office of Catholic Education received an allegation of inappropriate physical behavior by a part-time music instructor, Mr. Edward Golaszewski, towards a student at Bishop Shanahan High School in Chester County. Upon learning of these allegations, the Bishop Shanahan Administration immediately contacted ChildLine, the Chester County District Attorney's Office and the Downingtown Police Department. Mr. Golaszewski is also a part-time music instructor at Archbishop Wood High School in Bucks County. He previously taught at Cardinal Dougherty High School prior to its closure in June 2010. The Office of Catholic Education is unaware of any other allegations regarding Mr. Golaszewski.
As of today, this instructor is on administrative leave, which means he is relieved of all duties within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Bishop Shanahan and Archbishop Wood emailed letters to parents and guardians of their respective school communities today. The Office of Catholic Education will be contacting school families of students who previously attended Cardinal Dougherty High School.
"We are deeply saddened to learn of these allegations and remain committed to ensuring the safety and well being of our children," said, Ms. Mary E. Rochford, Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.
The Office of Catholic Education of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia recognizes that this public notice may be painful to those who have been abused. If anyone needs assistance please contact the Victim Assistance Office for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia at 1-888-800-8780 or philavac@adphila.org.