The board assists the bishop by reviewing sexual misconduct policies and recommending what actions the bishop should take in response to allegations of sexual misconduct by priests.

Donald Macrino

"It's the alleged victim I'm most concerned with," Macrino said. "That has to be my first priority. Although I'm concerned about one's career and all of that stuff, that becomes secondary to the safety of any potential victim."

On the other hand, he said, he doesn't want to see the diocese "become Salem" by condemning priests on unsubstantiated allegations. "But I think that there are provisions that can be put in place to ensure the safety of those who may come in contact with the accused," he said.

The review board has existed since 1990, when the diocese's first sexual misconduct policy was written, but until two years ago, it was chaired by the bishops of the Diocese.

Two years ago, Bishop Daniel A. Hart named Deacon Al Fecteau as chairman. Macrino is the first layman to chair the board.

"As chairperson, I'm not employed by the diocese," Macrino said. "So I think this is a further attempt to insure impartiality."

Macrino said he has been "deeply troubled and embarrassed" by the sexual scandal that has enveloped the church, and he said he promised, "I will preserve my own integrity, and if I found that that were challenged, I would be vocal about it and adamant about it and make sure the right thing was done.

"I have had discussions with the bishop, and I feel he agrees with me," he added. "I think he's very progressive and truly wants to do what is right."

In making the announcement, Cote stated, "I am most pleased and very grateful to Don Macrino for accepting my appointment to this very important and responsible chair ... Mr. Macrino's personal faith, his well-known practice of the Catholic faith, his years of experience as a school administrator in Waterford, his knowledge of young people, make him exceptionally qualified for this task. I pray that he and the other members of the board will work together to insure the compliance of this local church to the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, and to the healing which is so needed by all in the church."

Macrino, who resides in Waterford, has been an educator for the past 32 years. He has taught English at New London High School, has been assistant principal of Clark Lane Middle School in Waterford, and is in his eighth year as principal of Waterford High School.

A lifelong parishioner of St. Joseph Parish in New London, he is a member of the parish pastoral council and St. Joseph School Board of Education.

Several priests who have worked in the diocese have been accused of sexual misconduct, and there are several lawsuits against the diocese currently pending.

k.robinson@theday.com