Regarding Fr. John Michael McDermott, SJ

Media Contacts:

Mike Gabriele (Jesuits) | (212) 774-5500

Ned McGrath (Archdiocese of Detroit) | (313) 237-5943

The Archdiocese of Detroit has been made aware by the USA East Province of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) of an allegation of sexual abuse against a minor by one of its members. Since 2006, Fr. John Michael McDermott, SJ, known as Father Mike, has been a theology professor at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit. The allegation involving Fr. McDermott, 80, dates back to when he was studyingto become a priest, prior to his 1971 ordination. The alleged behavior, according to the Jesuits, did not occur in southeast Michigan.

Fr. McDermott has been temporarily removed from public ministry, including teaching, recalled by his Provincial leadership, and placed under supervised care by the Jesuits pending an investigation. In these situations, a priest, whether he’s from a religious order or diocesan, is presumed innocent while restricted. According to his superiors, Fr. McDermott states the abuse claim against him is without merit. The Detroit archdiocese joins with the Jesuits in their call for prayers for all those who have ever been victimized by a member of the clergy.

As per the Provincial website, those who have been abused by a Jesuit, or believe that someone they know has been abused, are urged to advise the USA East Province by contacting the victim advocate at (443) 370-6357 or ueaadvocacy@jesuits.org. They are also encouraged to reach out to the appropriate civil authorities.

In the Archdiocese of Detroit, individuals with knowledge of sexual abuse by clergy or other Church representatives are urged to contact local law enforcement and/or the Michigan Attorney General’s Office at (844) 324-3374 or aginvestigations@michigan.gov.

Individuals also may contact the Archdiocese of Detroit by visiting protect.aod.org or by calling the 24/7 victim assistance line at (866) 343-8055 or by emailing vac@aod.org. There are no time limits or restrictions on individuals wishing to report abuse.

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