Father Alphonsus M. Smith
Justice and Healing: The Case of Alphonsus M. Smith
The story of Alphonsus M. Smith is another difficult chapter in the ongoing crisis of clergy sexual abuse. At The Yost Legal Group, we believe in shining a light on these cases, supporting survivors, and fighting for accountability—no matter how long ago the abuse occurred.
Alphonsus M. Smith was ordained as a Catholic priest in 1956, serving in the Archdiocese of Washington (ADW) for nearly four decades. His career ended in disgrace after credible allegations of sexual abuse surfaced, leading to his removal from ministry, arrest, and conviction.
Timeline: Alphonsus M. Smith’s Ministry and Legal Actions
1956: Ordained as a priest in the Archdiocese of Washington.
1956–1995: Served in various parishes and ministries in Maryland and the DC area.
1995: First report of sexual abuse made to the ADW. Immediately removed from ministry, arrested, and convicted later that year.
2005: Died.
Churches and Locations Where Alphonsus M. Smith Served
While Smith’s full list of appointments isn’t always public, records and survivor reports indicate he served at several parishes and institutions, including:
St. John the Evangelist Parish, Clinton, MD
St. Mary’s Parish, Landover Hills, MD
Other possible assignments within the Archdiocese of Washington
If you attended any of these parishes and have concerns, please know that you are not alone and support is available.
Articles and Resources About Alphonsus M. Smith
For more information and documentation about Smith’s abuse, arrest, and conviction, these resources provide additional context:
Maryland Attorney General’s Report on Child Sexual Abuse
This official report details clergy sexual abuse cases in Maryland, including Smith’s history.
Read the report (PDF)
Bishop Accountability: Alphonsus M. Smith
A summary of allegations, assignments, and outcomes related to Smith.
View on BishopAccountability.org
The Yost Legal Group: Maryland’s Advocate for Survivors
At The Yost Legal Group, we are dedicated to providing a safe, compassionate environment for survivors of clergy abuse. We believe your voice matters. Our experienced legal team listens without judgment, explains your rights, and helps you determine if you have a claim to seek justice and compensation.
- Free, confidential consultations
- No fees unless we recover compensation for you
- A survivor-focused approach, prioritizing your comfort, privacy, and healing
- Experience in Maryland’s evolving laws, including expanded statute of limitations for abuse claims
You are not alone. If you or a loved one was harmed by Alphonsus M. Smith or any member of the clergy, take the first step toward healing and justice—contact The Yost Legal Group today.
Contact Information:
(800)-YOST-LAW
(866)-841-4597
Text: 1-410-659-6800
No matter how long ago the abuse happened, your story is important. We are here to listen, to help, and to fight for you.