Statement from Pastor

Announcement from the Pastor

On August 1, I was informed by the Burlington County Prosecutor’s office that our former youth group director, Arnold DiBlasi, has been charged with possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material.

Naturally, my first concern is for the well-being and safety of the youth in our care. I was assured by the prosecutor’s office that no parish youth were involved in the materials, none of the activities took place on parish property, nor were any parish electronics used.

We are shocked and saddened to learn this news, especially since the parish followed all the required child protection protocols and Mr. DiBlasi successfully completed all required training programs, including undergoing criminal history background checks and finger printing, none of which revealed any criminal record when the parish hired him. The safety of our parish youth is always the paramount concern of myself and the parish leadership. While our parish was not directly affected by Mr. DiBlasi’s actions, it is a reminder that we must at all times remain vigilant for the safety of our youth.

If at any time you become aware of concerns for the welfare of youth in the parish’s care, you are encouraged to contact local law enforcement and the parish office immediately.

While the charges do not involve our parish, if you happen to have any information related to the case involving Mr. DiBlasi, you are asked to contact first Mr. Joel Bewley of the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office at 609-265-5777 or jbewley@co.burlington.nj.us and then the parish office at 856-429-1330.

God bless,

Father Jason Rocks
Pastor
Holy Eucharist Parish