BishopAccountability.org
	Other Diocesan Bankruptcy Proceedings Moving Along By Ashbel S. Green The Oregonian [United States] April 13, 2007 http://blog.oregonlive.com/breakingnews/2007/04/other_diocesan_bankruptcy_proc.html The bankruptcy case involving the the Portland Archdiocese is one of several such cases. Here's what's going on with other diocesan bankruptcy proceedings throughout the United States: Spokane Bishop William Skylstad has rejected calls from prominent Catholics to resign over a proposed $48 million settlement with about 150 priest accusers. The settlement includes insurance money and the sale of church properties. Parishes also are expected to contribute $10 million. The diocese, which serves more than 90,000 Catholics in 13 eastern Washington counties, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in December 2004 because of sex-abuse litigation. If approved by sex-abuse accusers, the settlement will be taken up by a bankruptcy judge as part of a broader reorganization plan later this month. San Diego A federal bankruptcy judge has ordered an external audit of the diocese after accusing church officials of misrepresenting facts and possibly violating bankruptcy laws. The diocese, which includes 1 million Catholics, sought bankruptcy protection in February in the face of lawsuits by more than 140 people claiming to be abused by priests. In March, the diocese proposed a $95 million settlement. Attorneys for accusers said $200 million would be fair. Davenport, Iowa A judge has set a July 16 deadline for people to file claims of sexual abuse by priests against the Diocese of Davenport. The diocese, which serves more than 100,000 Catholics, filed for bankruptcy protection in October 2006 in the face of dozens of sex-abuse lawsuits. The diocese has put up for sale church properties, including its headquarters and the bishop's home. Tucson The diocese sought bankruptcy protection in 2004 shortly after Portland, gaining approval of a $22 million settlement plan involving 50 priest accusers a year later. Tucson serves about 350,000 Catholics. — Ashbel S. Green tonygreen@news.oregonian.com
Any original material on these pages is copyright © BishopAccountability.org 2004. Reproduce freely with attribution.