Boston - The Archdiocese of Boston announced Friday that two priests accused in sex abuse cases are "no loner in the clerical state," and can no longer function in any capacity as priests.
The Holy See made the decision on Robert P. Beale and Dennis A. Keefe, saying that both had sought voluntary removal and as a result would no longer receive any financial support from the Archdiocese.
Keefe was accused of sexually abusing a minor in 1995 and was placed on administrative leave.
In 2002, Beale was accused of the sexual abuse of minors in the 1970s. He was placed on administrative leave and restricted from public ministry.
"The conclusion of this process provides an important opportunity for me to again apologize for the crimes perpetrated by clergy and for the suffering so many members of our community have endured," Cardinal Sean O'Malley said in a prepared release.
"I remain committed to providing pastoral care and support services to all who have been harmed by the tragic reality of clergy sexual abuse," O'Malley said.
O'Malley encouraged any person in need of support services to contact the Archdiocese's Office of Pastoral Support and Outreach.
