Statement Regarding Mr. Nathan Brooks

The Most Reverend Douglas J. Lucia, Bishop of the Diocese of Syracuse, has received notification from the Dicastery of the Doctrine for the Faith of the dispensation from the clerical state and its obligations of Mr. Nathan W. Brooks by Pope Leo XIV, effective August 7, 2026.

Mr. Brooks was arrested and criminally charged with four misdemeanors involving a minor in Cortland County on August 31, 2023. At that time, Bishop Lucia immediately placed him on administrative leave, removing him from all public priestly ministry pending the outcome of civil and canonical investigations. On December 17, 2024, Mr. Brooks pleaded guilty to one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child and was sentenced to probation.

Following the conclusion of the civil legal proceedings, the canonical process resumed. After further investigation, the Diocesan Review Board advised Bishop Lucia that the allegations were credible and substantiated.  Upon canonical consultation, Mr. Brooks ultimately decided to petition the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine for the Faith to be dispensed from all obligations of the clerical state. The petition was granted June 30, 2026, and communicated to Bishop Lucia in the following weeks. 

Mr. Brooks is no longer a priest, and therefore, is no longer able to exercise priestly ministry, which includes the celebration of sacraments. He is not permitted to hold any position within the Catholic Church, as well as, present himself as a priest which includes the wearing of clerical attire or using the title, “Father” or “Reverend.”

The Diocese of Syracuse is fully committed to protecting the young and vulnerable and will continue to adhere to all aspects of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.  The Diocese offers its prayers for healing, peace and justice for all those directly involved in this situation and for our local Church.

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