Father Terrance Pinkowski (Franciscan)
Ordained: 1949
Died: 1991
Assigned as follows:
- Archbishop Ryan High School (Philadelphia, PA)
Summary of Abuse Allegations against Father Terrance Pinkowski:
Father Terrance Pinkowski was ordained a priest of the Franciscan order in 1949 and served in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. He served as a teacher and counselor at Archbishop Ryan High School in Philadelphia. According to media reports, in 1992, he was named in a civil suit alleging he repeatedly sexually abused a 14-year-old student in 1976 through 1981, until he was almost 20 years old. The boy was a member of prayer group known as the Charismatics, led by the priest.
As the boy grew up, Father Pinkowski told him that the abuse was "therapy," a part of his spiritual preparation for ordination. The boy had planned to become a priest and Pinkowski became his mentor and spiritual counselor, as well as a close family friend.
When the alleged victim went to officials, the head of the Franciscan order promised to pay for therapy and take care of the priest, who denied the allegations. They transferred Father Pinkowski, but refused to pay for therapy. The Pennsylvania Superior Court dismissed the case, ruling that it was too late because of statute of limitations. Father Pinkowski died in 1991.
Horowitz Law is a law firm representing victims and survivors of sexual abuse by Catholic priests and other clergy in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. If you need a lawyer because you were sexually abused by a priest in Pennsylvania, contact our office today. Although many years have passed, those abused by Catholic clergy in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia may have legal options, but filing deadlines will apply so please do not delay in reaching out to us.
Contact us at 888-283-9922 or adam@adamhorowitzlaw.com to discuss your options today.