SANTA FE (NM)
Archdiocese of Santa Fe [Santa Fe NM]
June 29, 2023
The Archdiocese of Santa Fe has recently received information regarding the arrest of Daniel Balizan in connection with a reported case of clergy sexual abuse involving a minor. The archdiocese promptly reported the abuse allegations to the authorities upon being informed in 2022, leading to Balizan’s immediate removal as the pastor of Santa Maria de la Paz in Santa Fe.
Most Reverend John C. Wester, Archbishop of Santa Fe, urges the faithful to keep all victims of clergy sexual abuse in their prayers. The archdiocese remains fully committed to cooperating with the authorities as they conduct their investigation.
The Archdiocese of Santa Fe reaffirms its zero tolerance and unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of its community members, especially the vulnerable. It emphasizes its ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and support for survivors of abuse.
Anyone sexually abused as a minor or who knows about a case of sexual abuse of a minor should immediately report it to the civil authorities. When such sexual abuse has been committed by a cleric, religious, seminarian, diocesan or parish employee, or a diocesan or parish volunteer, it also should be reported to the Archbishop of Santa Fe through the Archdiocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator, 505.831.8144| aklimka@archdiosf.org