Pacific News Center
April 14, 2010
http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4387:archdiocese-calls-for-victims-to-come-forward&catid=45:guam-news&Itemid=156
Guam - On the heels of allegations of sexual abuse by catholic priests on Guam, the Archdiocese of Agana has issued a statement, saying they are staunchly opposed to sexual assault by any of it's clergy.
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The allegations of sexual abuse come from the Survivors Network of Those Abused By Priest- or SNAP. The group claims it has been approached by a number of victims and they have called on the arch bishop and the church to admit that sexual assault does exist within the church, and they have also called on the church to release the names of the priests who have been accused. But the church continues to press that the allegations are all unfounded, and they assert that any claim of sexual assault will be taken seriously. Deacon Jeff Barcinas says a stringent policy has been established to address such allegations. Now if there are credible claims of sexual assault, Deacon Barcinas says victims should come forward. Deacon Barcinas and Deacon Steve Martinez have now been tasked to address allegations of sexual abuse, should any come forward, and their reports will then be forwarded to a sex abuse review panel. The allegations have raised some doubts amongst Catholics on island, and the church continues to urge people to stay strong and keep the faith. As for the visit by snap last week, the church continues to question their motives. SNAP Regional Director Joelle Casteix was on Guam last month inviting victims to join her in counseling sessions, however no one showed up to any of the scheduled meetings. Casteix did say she will be returning to Guam later this year.
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