Lake Zurich pastor accused of child sex abuse

The pastor at Saint Francis de Sales Parish in Lake Zurich has been asked to "step aside from ministry" after allegations of child sex abuse, according to a letter dated Saturday by Cardinal Blase Cupich.

The Rev. David Ryan is living away from the parish while the archdiocese investigates allegations that he sexually abused minors 25 years ago while assigned to Maryville Academy, a facility in Des Plaines for abused children.

The allegations have been reported to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and the Cook County state's attorney, according to the letter, which was addressed to parishioners and released to the media. Those making the allegations have been offered services by the archdiocese's Victim Assistance Ministry.

Cupich emphasized that the allegations have not been proved and that Ryan's guilt or innocence should not be assumed.

The Rev. Jerome Jacob, pastor of Saint Mary of the Annunciation in Mundelein, will serve as the temporary administrator of Saint Francis de Sales, Cupich said.