Statement regarding the Suppression of the SCV

Statement regarding the Suppression of the SCV

In January 2025 Pope Francis decided to suppress the SCV community. Our hearts are heavy with sorrow to know that anyone was hurt by members of the SCV community. We are deeply sorry for the pain they have experienced and pray that they will find as much healing as possible.

Please be assured that our local community of brothers and sisters has served faithfully in every way and that none of them has been accused of wrongdoing. All members of our ministry team at the parish and the Newman Center are required to obtain clear criminal background checks and child abuse clearances as a condition of their work here. They also participate in Safe Environment Training programs offered through the Archdiocese that seek to promote and foster a culture that respects the dignity and safety of all those we serve in a welcoming environment infused with the compassionate love of Christ. In accordance with our policies if any allegation of criminal activity were to be lodged against a member of our ministry team, it would be immediately reported to law enforcement and we would cooperate with the investigative process. Thanks be to God, we have never encountered such a scenario here.

We have been in frequent conversation with Archbishop Pérez and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to let them know about the work of the Vatican investigation into the SCV over the past two years. The Archbishop has decided to incardinate Fr. Remigio Morales Bermudez and Fr. Carlos Keen as priests of the Archdiocese. They will remain in place as Pastor and Vicar of the Parish. All former lay members of the SCV have been given permission to stay as lay employees of the Parish. We thank you for your support over the years and look forward to continuing to serve you. May God bless you always.