Bishop Speaks out after Senior Priest Found Guilty

The Lancashire Evening Post
November 17, 2013

http://www.lep.co.uk/news/local/bishop-speaks-out-after-senior-priest-found-guilty-1-6249923

Michael Campbell

THE Bishop of Lancaster has spoken of his “profound sorrow” after a senior catholic priest was convicted of historic sexual offences.

The Right Reverend Michael Campbell, has spoken out after Canon Stephen Shield, 53, the Dean at Lancaster Cathedral, was found guilty of abuse over a seven year period.

Canon Shield is facing jail after being convicted of sexually assaulting a man in the presbytery of English Martyrs church in Preston.

He committed the offences more than two decades ago against a man who hoped to join the priesthood.

He was convicted at Preston Crown Court on Friday and is due to be sentenced on December 13.

Bishop Campbell said: “I want to express my profound sorrow and deepest regret to the victim for the abusive behaviour perpetrated by Canon Shield.

“It is my sincere hope that, as a result of this conviction and with the help of God, he will now be able to begin the process of healing and the rebuilding of his life.

“My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family and my door is most certainly open to them.”

Bishop Campbell continued: “The Diocese of Lancaster is fully committed to ensuring the safety and protection of each and every child, young and vulnerable person in our parishes and, as you will know, today there are robust and comprehensive safeguarding policies and procedures in operation throughout the Diocese - and indeed throughout the Catholic Church in England and Wales.”

“I wish to make clear that Canon Shield has not been in active ministry since his arrest earlier this year.”