Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, November 25, 2025
Sean Sweeney, a former business manager of Saint Matthias Church in Bala Cynwyd, faces felony charges for reportedly embezzling over $1.1 million between 2018 and 2024. The embezzled funds were allegedly used for personal expenses such as vacations and car payments. The church is cooperating with authorities and is implementing measures to enhance financial oversight. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for December 2025, amidst ongoing investigations into the incident and its impact on the community.
Bala Cynwyd, PA – Former Church Business Manager Charged with Embezzling Over $1 Million
Sean Sweeney, 60, of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, has been charged with multiple felonies after allegedly embezzling more than $1.1 million from Saint Matthias Church in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania. The funds were reportedly used for personal expenses, including vacations, car payments, and tuition fees.
Details of the Alleged Embezzlement
According to Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin R. Steele, Sweeney served as the church’s business manager from 2017 until his termination in 2024. During this period, he is accused of diverting funds intended for the church’s payroll processing company, PrimePay. Between 2018 and 2024, PrimePay deposited $1,134,906.35 into bank accounts controlled by Sweeney. Investigations revealed that these funds were used for personal expenditures, such as educational tuition, vehicle-related payments, and vacation costs.
Investigation and Charges
The investigation commenced in December 2024 when the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Office of Investigations referred the matter to the Montgomery County Detective Bureau. Authorities have charged Sweeney with two counts of felony theft, felony receiving stolen property, felony unlawful use of a computer, and other related crimes. He was taken into custody and released on $100,000 unsecured bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for December 3, 2025.
Background on Church Financial Mismanagement
This case highlights a concerning trend of financial mismanagement within religious organizations. Similar incidents have occurred in other parts of the country, where church officials have been charged with embezzling substantial amounts for personal use. These cases underscore the importance of implementing stringent financial oversight and accountability measures within religious institutions to prevent such abuses of trust.
Community Impact and Response
The congregation of Saint Matthias Church has expressed shock and disappointment over the alleged actions of their former business manager. Church leaders are cooperating fully with authorities to ensure that all stolen funds are recovered and to reinforce financial controls to prevent future incidents. The community remains committed to transparency and integrity in all church operations.
Legal Proceedings and Future Actions
As the legal process unfolds, the church is taking steps to strengthen its financial management practices. This includes conducting a comprehensive audit of all financial activities and implementing enhanced oversight mechanisms. The congregation is hopeful that these measures will restore trust and ensure the church’s resources are used solely for their intended charitable and religious purposes.
Conclusion
The alleged embezzlement by Sean Sweeney serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that can exist within organizations entrusted with public and charitable funds. It emphasizes the need for vigilance, transparency, and robust financial controls to safeguard against such breaches of trust.
Who is Sean Sweeney?
Sean Sweeney, 60, of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, was the business manager of Saint Matthias Church in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, from 2017 until his termination in 2024. He has been charged with embezzling over $1.1 million from the church.
What charges has Sean Sweeney faced?
Sean Sweeney has been charged with two counts of felony theft, felony receiving stolen property, felony unlawful use of a computer, and other related crimes.
How did the embezzlement occur?
Between 2018 and 2024, PrimePay deposited $1,134,906.35 into bank accounts controlled by Sweeney. These funds were intended for the church’s payroll processing but were allegedly used by Sweeney for personal expenses, including vacations, car payments, and tuition fees.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing. Sweeney was taken into custody and released on $100,000 unsecured bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for December 3, 2025.
How is the church responding to the incident?
The church is cooperating fully with authorities to recover the stolen funds and is implementing enhanced financial oversight measures to prevent future incidents. The congregation remains committed to transparency and integrity in all church operations.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Embezzlement Amount | Over $1.1 million |
| Alleged Perpetrator | Sean Sweeney, 60, of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina |
| Church Involved | Saint Matthias Church, Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania |
| Charges Faced | Felony theft, receiving stolen property, unlawful use of a computer, among others |
| Investigation Start Date | December 2024 |
| Preliminary Hearing Date | December 3, 2025 |
| Church’s Response | Cooperating with authorities, implementing enhanced financial oversight |
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