Archdiocese places North Reading pastor on leave as sexual abuse investigation unfolds

The Archdiocese of Boston has announced that it is placing a North Reading pastor on administrative leave during an investigation into an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor.

The alleged misconduct is said to have occurred in the late 1970s. The allegations involve Rev. Thomas M. Gillespie, the pastor of St. Theresa of Lisieux Parish.

The Archdiocese said it’s notified law enforcement of the allegation and initiated a preliminary investigation into the matter.

Gillespie, according to the Archdiocese, will remain on administrative leave without any public ministry pending the outcome of the investigation.

“The Archdiocese will work to resolve this case as expeditiously as possible and in a manner that is fair to all parties,” the church said in statement.