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	Statement of Bishop Mulhall to the Diocese of Pembroke Roman Catholic Diocese of Pembroke July 27, 2009 http://diocesepembroke.ca/site/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=1&Itemid=59&lang=english My dear faithful of the Diocese of Pembroke, In a few weeks, the diocese will begin the much anticipated process of mediation which we hope will bring about further healing to the victims of Msgr. Bernard Prince. We were truly saddened by the findings of the courts in relation to the allegations against him. These allegations were either admitted to or found to be true in a Court of Law. The Church has a mandate to build a supportive community. Such a community is built on the virtues of trust and truth. Faith in God and faith in each other are paramount to achieving this ideal. By the nature of our faith in God and His Church, we place faith in persons who have committed their lives to Him and to the service of His people. The Diocese of Pembroke has been challenged by two painful realities. In the first case, Msgr. Bernard Prince has admitted to or been convicted of abusing people in a sexual manner. As well, allegations have recently been made concerning Msgr. Robert Borne. We will continue to be cooperative and transparent as this process unfolds. The challenge to one's trust in a priest is a matter of personal pain. The Gospel compels us to reach out compassionately. The Protocol of the diocese regarding 'Professional Misconduct' mandates that we provide professional support for the healing of the victim. Prayerfully we keep, and will continue to keep, these people in our hearts. May God truly be to them the hope that brings true peace. As I mentioned in my letter of May 2nd, 2008, some persons are seeking financial compensation to assist them in their healing process. The diocese has offered and continues to offer a process of mediation to all the victims of Msgr. Prince. Some have accepted to enter into this process. Our offer to provide a fair and respectful process of mediation will give the victims an opportunity to be compensated without the victims' being exposed to a rigorous public trial. If at times there appeared to have been delays in responding, it has been in order to honour the request of the legal counsel of the persons involved. Our correspondence with the victims is, at the request of their legal counsel, done through their office. The conflict between our pastoral response and our respect of the legal process has at times caused some frustration. Msgr. Prince has been incarcerated. In addition to the penalty imposed by the criminal court, he will be subject to the laws and procedures of the Church. And if it is judged that an ecclesiastical penalty is warranted, it is imposed. Cases such as Msgr. Prince's, because of the gravity involved, are the responsibility of the Holy See. The Diocese of Pembroke has referred this case to the Holy See and will follow any direction which the Holy See mandates. Please rest assured that I trust in the grace of God to bring about much healing and growth for our Church as we experience the pain felt in both matters of allegation and conviction. Despite these trying times, the vast majority of priests have in the past and continue to live a profound priestly vocation. They are here to assist us all in this painful matter, and I am deeply grateful for their generous ministry. Again may I urge you to join with me prayerfully as we remember all persons who are affected in any way by these events. Michael Mulhall Bishop of Pembroke
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