Articles labeled: church

Well here’s something you don’t see every day — Rev. Thomas Szydlik, a Roman Catholic priest, is being accused of forcing a woman to have an abortion after he found out she was pregnant. Did we mention that Szydlik allegedly was the father of the baby? You’re not supposed to be *that* kind of father, Father!

Holly Force claims Szydlik began pursuing a relationship with her in 2004 while she attended a church in Peoria. The complaint states the Forces left Peoria and moved to Edwardsville to distance themselves from Szydlik.

Force alleges she had an abortion in July 2006 due to coercion by Szydlik.

Diocese Chancellor Patricia Gibson said Szydlik told Bishop Daniel Jenky in March 2005 that he had feelings for a woman, but that no vows had been broken. Szydlik asked then to be transferred to a different parish.