Homewood, Alabama, August 16, 2025
News Summary
Rev. Robert Sullivan, pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in Homewood, Alabama, is under investigation for allegedly engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a minor and making financial payments for silence. The investigation initiated by the Diocese of Birmingham has raised serious concerns about the safety of parishioners, particularly vulnerable individuals. Sullivan, who has served in the diocese for over 32 years, is barred from priestly duties while the inquiry continues. This case highlights ongoing issues surrounding clergy misconduct within the church.
Homewood, Alabama – Rev. Robert Sullivan, pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, is under investigation for allegations involving an inappropriate relationship with a minor and subsequent financial transactions aimed at silence. Sullivan has been on personal leave since the investigation by the Diocese of Birmingham commenced, following allegations that he paid Heather Jones, now 33, nearly $400,000 for companionship and sexual encounters that reportedly began when she was just 17 years old in 2009.
The allegations surfaced in July, leading the victim assistance coordinator of the diocese to initiate an internal investigation under church law. Despite the seriousness of the claims, the Alabama Department of Human Resources has determined that the situation does not warrant a state investigation. Bishop Steven Raica has stated that any allegations involving minors must be communicated to the Vatican, in line with the guidelines established by the church.
Sullivan’s predecessor, Rev. Martin Muller, who served the parish for over 35 years before his retirement in June 2023 at the age of 91, remarked that he had limited knowledge of the current situation, emphasizing that it is being investigated thoroughly.
Rev. Sullivan has served within various capacities in the Birmingham Diocese for over 32 years and previously held the position of vicar general. His tenure as pastor at Our Lady of Sorrows began earlier this year, making him the first pastor in the parish’s modern history to be implicated in a sex scandal. The previous pastor, Charles Bordenca, was removed in 1989 following credible sexual abuse allegations against minors.
The allegations against Sullivan have raised significant concerns regarding the safety of vulnerable individuals within his congregation, particularly families and children. The diocese has assured the public that Sullivan will refrain from any priestly duties during the ongoing investigation process.
According to Jones, she met Sullivan while working at a strip club in 2009, where she claimed to be underage. She alleges that he was a regular patron who provided financial support and companionship, and she felt pressured into continuing the relationship due to her difficult upbringing. Documents shared by Jones, including emails and records of financial transactions, show that Sullivan reportedly funded her living expenses and rehabilitation for issues stemming from their relationship.
Reports indicate that Sullivan purportedly offered to pay Jones $273,000 for her silence through a non-disclosure agreement and later sent her two wire transfers, each amounting to $136,500 after she consented. Allegations further claim that Sullivan introduced himself as a doctor before revealing his status as a priest, which conflicted with her understanding of vocational commitments.
Bishop Raica has commented on the need to uphold youth protection guidelines within the church and maintains that Sullivan is presumed innocent until the investigation concludes. Meanwhile, multiple attempts by media outlets to reach Sullivan for comments have been unsuccessful.
Background of the Allegations
The situation has reignited discussions around the safety measures in place within the church. Rev. Sullivan’s case stands out as it marks a significant breach within a parish that has seen its share of controversies over the years. The diocese is also under scrutiny for its protocols regarding allegations of impropriety involving clergy members.
Key Developments
- Allegations against Rev. Sullivan include paying Heather Jones nearly $400,000 for sex that began when she was 17.
- The Diocese of Birmingham is managing the investigation following church law guidelines.
- The Alabama Department of Human Resources has opted not to pursue a state investigation.
- Rev. Sullivan is barred from priestly duties during the investigation period.
- The situation raises important discussions around the safety of vulnerable parishioners.
FAQs
- What are the allegations against Rev. Robert Sullivan?
- Rev. Sullivan is accused of paying Heather Jones nearly $400,000 for companionship and sexual encounters that began when she was 17 years old.
- What steps is the Diocese of Birmingham taking regarding the investigation?
- The diocese has launched an internal investigation under church law, confirmed by Bishop Steven Raica, although the state opted not to get involved.
- Will Rev. Sullivan continue his duties during the investigation?
- No, the diocese has stated that he will not participate in any priestly ministry while the investigation is ongoing.
- What is the historical context regarding the allegations?
- Sullivan is the first pastor in the modern history of Our Lady of Sorrows to face such accusations. His predecessor was removed in 1989 over credible sexual abuse claims against minors.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accusation | Relationship with minor, financial payments for silence |
| Involved Parties | Rev. Robert Sullivan, Heather Jones |
| Nature of Investigation | Internal church investigation, no state involvement |
| Historical Reference | First modern pastor scandal at Our Lady of Sorrows since 1989 |
| Current Status | Sullivan barred from priestly duties |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Investigation Launched Against Father Robert Sullivan
Investigation Launched Against Alabama Priest Over Allegations
Investigation into Sexual Misconduct Allegations Against Priest
Additional Resources
- AL.com: Homewood Church Scandals
- Wikipedia: Catholic Church Sexual Abuse Cases
- The Guardian: Alabama Priest Robber Sullivan
- Google Search: Alabama priest Robert Sullivan
- WBRC: Homewood Priest Investigation
- Google Scholar: Sexual Abuse Priest
- New York Post: Alabama Priest Accusations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Catholic Church
- AL.com: Alabama Priest on Leave
- Google News: Homewood Priest Investigation
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
