Statement of Child Protection
Fr. Philip Cook, OSA, PhD
Headmaster of Cascia Hall Preparatory School 

On October 2, 2019, the Diocese of Tulsa published a list of members of diocesan priests and members of religious orders who have been credibly accused of sexually abusing minors while serving in that Diocese. The Diocese’s list only included members of religious orders who were accused of abusing minors while serving in diocesan institutions.

In 2011, Cascia Hall became aware of an allegation that on one occasion nearly 50 years ago, John D. Murphy, a former Augustinian who was assigned to Cascia Hall in 1969-1970, abused a student during that academic year. Accordingly, John D. Murphy is not among those listed by the Diocese. Murphy was a member of the Augustinian Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel, with which Cascia Hall is affiliated. Murphy left the Augustinians in 1993. He served here for only that one year, 1969-1970. 

Cascia Hall joins Bishop David Konderla in his commitment to bring healing to victims of sexual abuse, and to the transparency, solidarity, and humility that undertaking requires. Doing so requires our collective effort and unending vigilance, and Cascia Hall is committed to this mission. 

Cascia Hall and the Augustinians place the utmost importance on the safety and well-being of all minors, including all students at Cascia Hall. Cascia Hall and the Augustinians have implemented policies and procedures that serve to prevent the abuse of children and ensure that any allegation of the abuse of a minor is properly reported and investigated. All prospective members of the Augustinians and all lay applicants for any position at Cascia Hall are thoroughly screened and must undergo and pass a criminal background check before joining the Augustinians or being offered employment. Any allegation of the sexual abuse of a minor against a member of the Augustinian Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel may be reported to the Province’s Victim Assistance Coordinator by calling 815-717-3172.