Campus Minister Accused of Abuse

Bishop Stang High School's campus ministry director, Jean Revil, 53, has been accused of sexual misconduct and been placed on paid leave, as reported by South Coast Today in Dartmouth.

The Diocese of Fall River reported that the alleged inappropriate behavior occurred between Revil and a female student in 1994.

The Bristol County District Attorney's Office is investigating the charge per a news release from the diocese.

Revil has stated, "I am stunned by the allegation.  I've worked with young people for more than 30 years and I've always tried to treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve. I would never do anything to violate that dignity. I am praying for the person who made the allegation and for a speedy resolution to the situation. God knows the truth and I am confident that the truth will come out."

The alleged victim, now an adult, filed a report with a Catholic Social Services staff member.  The diocese in turn reported it to the district attorney. The claims states that the incidents took place on school property.

Revil has been with Bishop Stang High School for over 30 years, starting as a classroom teacher before becoming the director of the campus ministry office. She also has been on several mission trips with students.

Current and former students - as well as parents of students - have been surprised at the allegations.

Jean Medeiros, 19, currently enrolled at Stang said, "She's such a good person and a follower of God."

Christina Zajac, 26, stated, "In the years that I've known Ms. Revil, there was absolutely no occasion which caused me to question her character or moral behavior. I find these allegations extremely difficult to believe. "

Dr John Bratton has sent four of his children to Stang and said, "Jean has been a stabilizing force in that ministry team. She strikes a good balance between not just being a buddy for the students, but in filling a parental role from a spiritual standpoint."

Reverend Roger Landry, pastor with St. Anthony de Padua Church in New Bedford and editor of The Anchor - a diocesan newspaper - stated that there has been no decision made yet on whether Revil's monthly youth ministry column will continue during her paid leave. He said, "I presume that while this is being investigated, hopefully investigated expeditiously, that she might not want to write a column for The Anchor."

The Fall River diocese, in sticking to church policies, reported the allegations to Thomas Carroll at the Bristol County District Attorney's office. Lisa Rowell, spokesperson, would only comment to say that the matter is under investigation.

Bishop Stang's website posted a statement from the diocese that reads, "This is obviously a very troubling matter for all involved, including the alleged victim, Ms. Revil and the entire Bishop Stang High School community. In response, Catholic Social Services is providing counselors for any student or staff member who wishes to talk with one about this distressing situation."

If you, or someone you love, has been subjected to any kind of abuse while enrolled in a parochial school, click here to find an attorney today to help!