Statement Regarding Historic Day for Safety of Children

By Anne Steffens
Roman Catholic Archdiocese
October 13, 2014

http://www.archspm.org/archspm_news/statement-regarding-historic-day-safety-children/

The joint agreement that has been reached between the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis and Jeff Anderson and Associates and the survivors he represents is a historic moment in our efforts to assure the safety of children and vulnerable adults. The agreement embodies a strengthened spirit of collaboration in addressing the issues related to clerical sexual abuse.

I am deeply saddened and profoundly sorry for the pain suffered by victims, survivors and their families.

Today we take a significant step closer to achieving the goals we set nearly a year ago to protect children, to help survivors heal, and to restore trust with our clergy and faithful. I am grateful to all those on both sides of the courtroom aisle who have worked so diligently to bring about this agreement.

I pray that this local Church will continue to be inspired by the Word of God to respond to the needs of those who have been harmed and seek healing as we move forward toward a new day for this Archdiocese as well as for our local community.