Duluth Diocese Releases List of 17 Priests Accused of Abusing Children

By Jean Hopfensperger
Star Tribune
December 31, 2013

http://www.startribune.com/local/238277671.html

[list of names]

Duluth diocese is third in the state to release names of priests accused of child abuse.

The diocese of Duluth released the names of 17 Catholic priests Tuesday who have been credibly accused of molesting children.

None of the priests are in active ministry, according to the diocese, and most are no longer living. The diocese is releasing its list to bring healing on the issue, said Duluth Bishop Paul Sirba.

“The release of this information underscores a sad truth that must be acknowledged: Over the last 65 years, a number of clergy members in the Diocese of Duluth have violated the sacred trust placed in them by children, youth and their families,” said Sirba, at a morning news conference.

“These clergy have caused terrible harm to victims, to the victims’ families, to our community, to the Church and to the many, many good priests who faithfully carry out their duties to God’s people with love and generosity,” he said.