Statement about Father Petroske

Father Peter Petroske, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Dearborn, was placed on administrative leave of absence on Monday, Aug. 6. Over the weekend, the Archdiocese learned that Father Petroske was arrested last Thursday night, Aug. 2, by Dearborn Police while driving unaccompanied in his vehicle, and was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and indecent exposure. Archdiocesan officials met with parish staff on Monday to inform them of Father Petroske’s leave of absence.

Father Robert Blondell, a retired priest for the archdiocese, has been named temporary administrator of Sacred Heart Parish and will oversee day-to-day operations at the parish.

The archdiocese takes such matters seriously and is cooperating fully with law enforcement. This is a difficult time for the parish community, and we ask for prayers for all who are impacted.