Former Grayslake priest removed from ministry amid investigation

A former associate pastor of St. Gilbert Parish in Grayslake has been removed from his duties following an allegation of inappropriate physical contact and boundary violations involving an adult.

Cardinal Blase Cupich informed the parish community of the accusations against the Rev. Samson Mukundi in a letter Saturday evening.

Mukundi, currently pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish on Chicago’s South Side, served at St. Gilbert from November 2007 and June 2012, according to Cupich’s letter.

Similar letters went out Saturday to Blessed Sacrament and parishes in Chicago and south suburban Homewood, where Mukundi previously served.

“The allegation does not involve the sexual abuse of a minor,” Cupich wrote. “Nevertheless, the concerns raised are serious and warrant careful attention and appropriate action.”

The letter does not indicate when or where the misconduct alleged occurred.

Mukundi has been directed him to undergo a period of evaluation, during which time he will not be permitted to engage in public priestly ministry, the letter states.

“I recognize that this news may be troubling and may raise questions and concerns among those who have known Father Mukundi through his years of priestly ministry, Cupich wrote. “Please know that the Archdiocese takes seriously its responsibility to uphold appropriate standards of conduct among those entrusted with pastoral ministry, while ensuring that all individuals involved are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect.”

Anyone who may have experienced inappropriate conduct, unwanted physical contact, or boundary violations involving Mukundi, or who may have information about similar concerns, is asked to contact the Vicars for Priests Office at (312) 534-1837.