PETERSBURG (VA)
Progress Index
February 13, 2019
By Bill Atkinson
Diocese releases names of 42 men with ‘credible, substantiated’ accusations of assault of minors
The Catholic Diocese of Richmond released a list Wednesday of 42 former diocese priests having “credible and substantiated” accusations of sexual abuse of minors, and that list includes a former priest at a Prince George County parish.
In an open letter to the diocese membership, Bishop Barry C. Knestout said the release coincides with his promise for transparency and accountability in how the church has dealt with the allegations. Knestout said the release is being done to help the survivors and their families heal from their past abuse.
“To those who experienced abuse from clergy, I am truly, deeply sorry,” Knestout wrote. “I regret that you have to bear the burden of the damage you suffered at the hands of those you trusted. I am also sorry that you must carry the memory of that experience with you. Moreover, I apologize to family members and friends of the abused, and to all members of the Catholic Church.”
Knestout stated that the crisis calls for the diocese to “be immersed in three aspects of reconciliation” — acknowledgement of the abuse, regret for the victims and a commitment that it never happens again.
“In doing so, we make known — and support with actions — our commitment to repair the damage that has been done,” the bishop wrote.
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