LYNN — A former Lynn priest has been found guilty of sexually abusing a child and stripped of his ministerial privileges, the Archdiocese of Boston announced on Thursday.
Rev. James Gaudreau, former pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Lynn, had been placed on administrative leave on Sept. 23, 2012 for the allegation, which reportedly occurred in 2006. The Essex District Attorney’s office declined to prosecute Gaudreau on the charges, which were filed in 2012
Gaudreau is no longer permitted to provide spiritual direction, wear clerical attire, and cannot function in any manner as a priest. The Vatican has affirmed his sentence and directed him to live a life of prayer and penance, according to the Archdiocese.
“Having been found guilty, he is forbidden from all public ministry and from otherwise presenting himself as a priest,” the statement said. “He is expected to dedicate his life to praying for victims and repenting of his past offenses. In this way, the Church seeks even here to prevent any abuse and repair the injustice that has already taken place.”
Through its Office of Pastoral Support and Outreach, the Archdiocese provides counseling and other services to survivors, their families and parishes impacted by clergy sexual abuse and by allegations of abuse by members of the clergy.
Anyone in need of assistance or support is directed to contact the office at (617) 746-5985.
