Green Bay Brothers Abused by Priests during Childhood Continue Speaking out

By Patty Murray
Superior Telegram
March 25, 2013

http://www.superiortelegram.com/event/article/id/75875/group/News/

Two brothers who settled an abuse case with the Green Bay Catholic Diocese say there are still priests who have not been identified or prosecuted for crimes against children.

Todd and Troy Merryfield won a $700,000 settlement from the Green Bay Catholic diocese.

In the 1970s the brothers were abused by Patrick Feeney, who was then a priest with the church. Speaking outside the local cathedral, the brothers said their settlement is cold comfort.

Todd Merryfield still lives in Wisconsin; his brother Troy lives in Virginia.

“Money doesn't cure something like this, never does. Anyone who tells you that, they're lying.”

“How long can you continue to go? I've had so many fights, almost physical fisticuffs with my Dad over the years, because they've just wanted me to get over it, grow up, forget about it. And I couldn't do it. Part of the reason I live in Virginia is because I was sick and tired of getting in fights with my family.”

The brothers spoke to the media along with the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests. The group says the Green Bay diocese is still shielding other priests known to have abused kids.

In a written statement from earlier this week, Diocese Bishop David Ricken apologized to the Merryfield brothers and reiterated the church's commitment to protecting children.