Evanston Pastor Resigns After Alleged Misuse of Church Funds

Rev. Kenneth Anderson accused of using parish money for personal expenses

Apr. 15, 2026 at 3:26am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a metal lock and chain against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, creating a gritty, investigative aesthetic.The harsh lighting and stark contrast of this close-up image evoke the serious nature of the investigation into the alleged misuse of church funds by the former Evanston pastor.Evanston Today

The pastor of Saint John Henry Newman Parish in Evanston, Illinois has resigned following an investigation that found he used church funds for personal expenses. Cardinal Blase Cupich stated in a letter that Anderson had set up a separate bank account and deposited "substantial parish funds" into it, and that Anderson has agreed to pay back the money.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of financial transparency and accountability within religious organizations, as the alleged misuse of church funds can erode public trust and undermine the mission of the institution.

The details

According to the investigation, Rev. Kenneth Anderson, the former pastor of Saint John Henry Newman Parish, had set up a separate bank account and deposited "substantial parish funds" into it for his own personal use. Cardinal Blase Cupich, the leader of the Archdiocese of Chicago, disclosed this information in a letter to parishioners and stated that Anderson has agreed to pay back the misappropriated funds.

  • Rev. Kenneth Anderson resigned from his position as pastor of Saint John Henry Newman Parish in Evanston, Illinois.

The players

Rev. Kenneth Anderson

The former pastor of Saint John Henry Newman Parish in Evanston, Illinois who allegedly used church funds for personal expenses.

Cardinal Blase Cupich

The leader of the Archdiocese of Chicago who disclosed the findings of the investigation into Rev. Anderson's alleged misuse of church funds.

Saint John Henry Newman Parish

The Evanston, Illinois church where Rev. Anderson served as pastor before resigning.

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What they’re saying

“Rev. Anderson set up a separate bank account into which he deposited "substantial parish funds.”

— Cardinal Blase Cupich, Leader of the Archdiocese of Chicago

What’s next

The Archdiocese of Chicago has stated that Rev. Anderson has agreed to pay back the misappropriated funds, but it is unclear if any further legal action will be taken.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for robust financial oversight and accountability within religious organizations to prevent the misuse of funds entrusted to them by their congregations and the broader community.