November 2, 2018

Official Diocesan Statement Regarding the Arrest of Hurmiz Risko Ishak:

The Chaldean Diocese of St. Thomas the Apostle, Southfield, Michigan is cooperating fully with local law enforcement authorities regarding the arrest of Hurmiz Risko Ishak on allegations of child sexual abuse.

Hurmiz, 65, also known as Najib, was hired in 1997 as a sacristan at St. Joseph Chaldean Church located in Troy. His duties included opening and closing the church daily and preparing the church for all the liturgies. As a sub-deacon, he assisted the priest in the masses, weddings and funerals. A sub-deacon (acolyte) in the Chaldean Church is not part of the Holy Orders therefore, is not allowed to perform any of the sacraments. Hurmiz was not trained in the seminary therefore, is not a cleric.

The recent allegation against Hurmiz Ishak was immediately reported to the authorities. He was also immediately dismissed from his position as sacristan.

The diocese encourages any person who has been sexually abused by clergy, personnel, or church volunteer to report the abuse to the bishop, regardless of when it occurred. Allegations may also be brought forward to the Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator, Janan Senawi, at (248) 354-3066. Because this matter remains in the hands of law enforcement, neither the diocese nor the parish can comment further at this time.

Most Reverend Francis Y. Kalabat
Bishop of St. Thomas the Apostle
Chaldean Diocese – U.S.A.