Photo Credit: Leaven photo On June 17, 2025, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas announced that Phil Baniewicz is restricted from all active ministry in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas due to an allegation of inappropriate behavior with a minor. These restrictions are based on previously unknown information, which has not been released in public media, provided to the archdiocese after the June 6 announcement that he was placed on administrative leave at Bishop Miege High School. This information has been reported to civil authorities.
Mr. Baniewicz is prohibited from engaging in youth ministry and volunteer work in any Catholic parish, school, institution or event in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. He is to refrain from representing the Church in any official, volunteer, ministerial, or leadership role. This includes participation in Life Teen, a Catholic youth ministry. In addition, Mr. Baniewicz has signed an archdiocesan safety plan which states he agrees not to contact anyone known to have made an accusation of abuse or misconduct against him, or who may be a witness known to him.
This action has been taken “in the interest of promoting the common good, protecting the vulnerable, and pursuing the truth of the matters being investigated,” Archbishop McKnight stated.
The restrictions are imposed for the duration of the ongoing preliminary investigation and through any subsequent process conducted in the Church’s judicial system.
These precautionary measures are no indication of guilt or wrongdoing.
The archdiocese will provide no further information regarding the investigation until it is concluded.
In keeping with archdiocesan protocols, the archdiocesan Office for Protection and Care is prepared and eager to listen to those with concerns, using a trauma-informed approach. Please call or text our hotline number at 913-276-8703 or visit archkck.org/reportabuse. Report any abuse to civil authorities first by calling the Kansas Protection Report Center at 1-800-922-5330.
“Each of us has a responsibility to ensure a safe environment that protects the dignity of our vulnerable sisters and brothers, especially children and youth,” Archbishop McKnight said. “I am grateful for all who ensure our schools and parishes are healthy and holy environments where people can flourish. Please continue to pray for those impacted by this situation, especially those who have experienced harm. May Mary, Mother of the Church, protect and guide us as we strive to follow her son.”
Media and Public Inquiries:
For general questions or inquiries related to the investigation, please contact the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas Office of Communications at communications@archkck.org. Anyone with questions or concerns about safe environment should contact our Office for Protection, as stated above.