Cupich reinstates Father Pfleger after review of abuse allegation

Cardinal Blase Cupich, the archbishop of Chicago, announced on August 27, 2026, that Father Michael Pfleger has been returned to his ministry at St. Sabina parish after an abuse allegation against him was investigated.

The allegation was made a month earlier and was reviewed by the archdiocese's Review Board.

"The Review Board has concluded that there is no reason to believe that Father Pfleger is guilty of this allegation," Cupich said. After considering the board's findings, he accepted its conclusion and restored Pfleger to ministry with immediate effect.

Pfleger, known for his social activism and his work in the community, had been temporarily suspended while the investigation was underway. His pastoral work has centered on civil rights advocacy and on behalf of the most disadvantaged.

The archdiocese said it is committed to protecting minors and to transparency in handling abuse allegations. It said it takes all complaints very seriously and carries out rigorous investigations to determine whether they are true.