Father George Alengadan placed on administrative leave

Last summer, the Diocese of Oakland received allegations that Father George Alengadan had engaged in inappropriate conduct of a sexual nature with current and former female employees of the Diocese. At that time, Fr. Alengadan was placed on administrative leave as pastor at St. Joseph Basilica Parish, removing him from all supervisory authority at the parish and its two schools. A trained, independent investigator conducted a comprehensive investigation over several months. The investigator made a factual determination that the conduct alleged by these women was substantiated; however, the investigator made no determination whether this conduct constituted sexual harassment or a violation of any law. 

 

Father Alengadan resigned as pastor of St. Joseph Basilica Parish as a result of that investigation, although he remained a Catholic priest in good standing.

 

Since the conclusion of that investigation, new information has been received regarding additional allegations of inappropriate behavior by Father Alengadan with other women, dating back to 2002. 

 

Father Alengadan has been placed on administrative leave and a new investigation is being opened. 

 

Under the terms of a canonical decree, he is not able to present himself in public as a priest, which includes he cannot celebrate a public Mass or other sacraments, until the investigation is completed and a report provided to Bishop Michael Barber, SJ.

 

Following diocesan protocol, there will be no further details released until the investigation is complete.

 

Anyone who has information concerning an allegation of sexual misconduct by a clergy member or any diocesan employee or volunteer should contact the local civil authority, i.e. police or sheriff department, and the chancellor for the Diocese of Oakland, Mr. Stephen Wilcox, [email protected] or 510-267-8334.