It is with profound sadness that Bishop Desrochers communicates to our community the following:

In recent days the Diocese of Pembroke received historical allegations of the sexual abuse of minors against Reverend Norbert Cybulski, a retired priest of the Diocese. The persons making the reports are now adults but were minors at the time of the alleged actions. The Diocese has encouraged them to also report their allegations to police services. Because they were minors, the Diocese will not publicly comment further on the details that have been received.

Bishop Desrochers immediately opened a preliminary investigation into the information that has been received. As required by the universal law of the Catholic Church, the allegations will be forwarded to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith in Rome, which is the competent department of the Holy See to evaluate such allegations. During this period of investigation, Father Cybulski’s faculties to minister publicly have been withdrawn.

The Diocese of Pembroke extends support to any parties concerned in this case, will cooperate and respect the rights of all involved as details unfold, and prays that the truth concerning this matter be brought to light.

17 June 2022