PATERSON (NJ)
Observer-Tribune
03/02/2006
The diocese of Paterson, including Bishop Arthur Serratelli along with the pastor of St. Joseph Church in Mendham, are systematically trying to discredit and ostracize the Rev. Kenneth Lasch. Lasch was the pastor for 20 years at St. Joseph Church until he retired two years ago. There were certainly no tears shed in the diocesan offices when Lasch stepped down. That’s because the priest was among the most vocal supporters of people who had been sexually victimized by priests. Lasch was instrumental in forming the Survivors Network for people Abused by Priests (SNAP), the nationwide support group for victims of clerical sexual assault. In large part, Lasch became so involved with the support group because one of his predecessors at St. Joseph Church, former pastor Robert Hanley, was found to have been a notorious sexual abuser. Though he is no longer active with St. Joseph, Lasch has not stopped talking. In fact, he is as vocal as ever in calling for transparency in the church when it comes to exposing priests who commit sexual offenses.
Posted by kshaw at March 3, 2006 08:40 AM