Pennsylvania priest removed after sex abuse allegation

PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania (CNN) -- A Roman Catholic priest in Philadelphia has been removed from his ministry after church officials learned of allegations that he sexually abused a minor 28 years ago, Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua announced.

Bevilacqua, archbishop of Philadelphia, made the announcement at a Saturday afternoon Mass at St. Helena Parish, where the Rev. Craig Brugger was pastor.

Brugger was removed from his post Wednesday after a church official determined the sex abuse allegation was credible, the cardinal said, and the priest was admitted to a treatment center for evaluation.

"I very much understand the shock, discouragement and hurt which you are suffering as a result of this tragic revelation. It must cause you great pain," Bevilacqua told congregants. "Please know that I, too, share in your suffering and sadness."

Bevilacqua apologized to the victims of abuse and said they were his utmost concern.

"They have been violated physically, emotionally and spiritually. Their pain and suffering cannot be ignored," he said. "I extend again my deepest apologies to the victims and their families and, as shepherd of the archdiocese, I ask their forgiveness."

Bevilacqua said that neither he nor any other archdiocese official was aware of the allegations against Brugger until Wednesday when someone came forward. He said only one allegation of sexual abuse involving Brugger has been brought to the archdiocese's attention.

Bevilacqua said Brugger has been a well-respected priest who served the archdiocese faithfully, but he stressed that the allegation against him was serious and demanded immediate attention because "the protection of our youth is paramount."

"Like other priests who have been accused, Father Brugger will be treated fairly and with great compassion," he said. "At the same time, I need to assure you that the archdiocese will not tolerate acts of abuse against minors."