OAKLAND (CA)
The Oakland Voice
February 2, 2019
By Albert C. Pacciorini
A lively, respectful group of about 100 people met with two representatives of the Diocese of Oakland to discuss the issue of clergy sexual abuse and its coverup at St. Joan of Arc Church in San Ramon the evening of Jan. 22.
Steve Wilcox, chancellor of the diocese, and Rev. Jayson Landeza outlined the historical issues of clergy sexual abuse while saying the evening would be mostly questions from the audience.
Repeatedly, audience members drove home a theme: people, especially the young, are avoiding the Church in vast numbers, older people are falling away. They see the Church as unresponsive in meeting the needs of the gay and transgender community and not doing enough to end clergy sexual abuse.
We’ve heard all this before, many said: People’s lives have been ruined. Families are ruined. We’re tired of the apologies and repetition. Do something now.”
Wilcox said he hopes the diocese can release its list of credibly accused clergy on Feb. 18. While many will be familiar names, there may be one or two not previously widely known.
Rev. Ray Sacca, St. Joan of Arc pastor, opened the evening with prayer, and noted Catholics are expressing outrage at the renewed abuse revelations.
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