BRIDGEPORT - Sunday, April 21, 2002, 3:00 p.m.

Citing a need to restore the trust of the Catholic community, the Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, today called for a new era of reform. He announced that, as a result of the ongoing review of personnel files of clergy in the Diocese of Bridgeport, two priests have had their authorization to function as a priest removed and have been removed from their ministry. A third priest has requested a leave of absence.

"The evil of the sexual abuse of minors call for a radically new approach," said Bishop Lori, "and the key to moving forward is reform. I pledge to you today a new beginning in the Diocese of Bridgeport. I want you to understand that I will do whatever is necessary to restore the trust of the faithful."

Bishop Lori outlined the four key elements of reform:

1. Outreach - "I cannot pretend to grasp the anguish of victims, parents, and others affected by the sexual abuse of minors," Bishop Lori said. "We must recognize that there can never be enough outreach to victims or those who may be confused or hurt."

2. Prevention and Protection - "We are very mindful that actions speak louder than words," Bishop Lori said, "and while we have a sound Sexual Misconduct Policy in place, it must be continually improved and implemented in a way to ensure constant vigilance."

3. Leadership - "In partnership with the new Sexual Misconduct Review Board of the Diocese of Bridgeport, we will respond swiftly, decisively, and fairly to every allegation of sexual misconduct," Bishop Lori said.

4. Support and Validation for the Priesthood - "We have not done a good enough job of shining a light on the many fine priests and the incredibly generous work they perform," Bishop Lori said. "I, along with my brother priests, are continually called to holiness and a higher standard. Care must be taken to ensure that innocent priests are treated swiftly and fairly by our review process, and that their good names are not maligned. We will maintain our trust in the priests who deserve to be trusted."

Bishop Lori announced the names of two priests of the Diocese of Bridgeport who have had their authorization to function as a priest removed and have been removed from their ministry. Per the requirements of the Sexual Misconduct Policy of the Diocese, each priest was sent for psychological evaluation and asked to undergo treatment. The priests who have been removed are:

• Father Stanley N. Koziol, Assistant Pastor of Saint Mark Parish in Stratford. Father Koziol has acknowledged sexual misconduct with a minor in the early 1960s. There have been no other allegations of sexual misconduct with a minor regarding Father Koziol. Ordained to the priesthood in 1958, Father Koziol, 69, has been assigned to Saint Mark Parish since 1994. He was removed from his assignment in early March, and his case was brought before the Sexual Misconduct Review Board of the Diocese.
  
  
• Father Vincent J. Veich, Co-Pastor of Saint Benedict/Our Lady of Montserrat Parish in Stamford. Father Veich has acknowledged incidents of sexual misconduct with a woman in the late 1970s who claims she was 17 at the time. There have been no other allegations of sexual misconduct with a minor regarding Father Veich. Ordained to the priesthood in 1971, Father Veich, 57, has been assigned to Saint Benedict/Our Lady of Montserrat Parish since 1990. He was removed from his assignment earlier this month and his case was brought before the Sexual Misconduct Review Board of the Diocese.

Monsignor Laurence R. Bronkiewicz, Chancellor of the Diocese of Bridgeport, was present at the 12:15 p.m. Mass today at Saint Mark Parish to make the announcement on Father Koziol. Father Frank C. McGrath, Director of Clergy Personnel for the Diocese of Bridgeport, was present at the 10:45 a.m. Mass today at Saint Benedict/Our Lady of Montserrat Parish to make the announcement on Father Veich.

At each parish, information was distributed on counseling and support services that are available through Catholic Family Services, a division of Catholic Charities of Fairfield County. Follow-up informational meetings will be scheduled in each parish.

The review of personnel files of the active priests and deacons of the Diocese of Bridgeport, initiated by Bishop Lori in January, is now complete.

Also today, Bishop Lori announced that Monsignor Gregory M. Smith had tendered his resignation as Director of the Institute for Religious Education and Pastoral Studies (REAPS) at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield. Monsignor Smith also requested a leave of absence, and his authorization to function as a priest has been removed.

Monsignor Smith, 60, was ordained to the priesthood in 1967. He has been Director of REAPS since 1990, and Priest in Residence at Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish in Bridgeport since 1974.

In a letter to Bishop Lori, dated Saturday, April 20, 2002, Monsignor Smith wrote, "After careful prayer and consideration, I feel it best for everyone that I offer my resignation as Director of the Institute for Religious Education and Pastoral Studies at Sacred Heart University to Dr. Anthony J. Cernera, President. I also request of you a leave of absence. I truly wish to apologize to those I harmed early in my ministry and I ask their forgiveness."

Finally today, in the interests of disclosure, Bishop Lori provided details on two inactive priests of the Diocese of Bridgeport, who had their authorization to function as a priest removed and were removed from their ministry in 1997.

The two inactive priests are:

• Father Joseph P. Moore, former Assistant Pastor of Saint Mary Parish in Bethel from 1981-1983. From 1983 until 1997, Father Moore served outside of the Diocese of Bridgeport. A complaint of sexual misconduct in the 1970s was brought to the attention of the Diocese at the time and was brought again in January 1997. His authorization to function as a priest was immediately removed and he was removed from his ministry. He has not been returned to ministry. Father Moore was ordained to the priesthood in 1971.
  
  
• Monsignor Charles W. Stubbs, former Pastor of Saint Mary Parish in Greenwich from 1991-1996. Monsignor Stubbs, now 63, retired as Pastor of Saint Mary's in November 1996. At the time, there were also questions of financial impropriety. In July 1997, Monsignor Stubbs was appointed Assistant Pastor of Saint Rose of Lima Parish in Newtown. A complaint of sexual misconduct in the 1980s was brought against Monsignor Stubbs in September 1997. His authorization to function as a priest was immediately removed and he was removed from his ministry. He has not been not returned to ministry. Monsignor Stubbs was ordained to the priesthood in 1963.

On Friday, Bishop Lori announced the members of the newly-established Sexual Misconduct Review Board of the Diocese of Bridgeport. The ten-member Board, which will convene on an as-needed basis, will oversee the diocesan Sexual Misconduct Policy with three principal objectives:

• Adequacy of the Policy. The Board will examine how the existing Policy, established in 1991 and in accordance with all laws of the State of Connecticut, can be strengthened and improved.
  
  
• Implementation of the Policy. The Board will review how the Policy is implemented among all employees, volunteers, and clergy of the Diocese, in terms of education, compliance, and prevention.
  
  
• Review of Allegations of Misconduct. The Board will examine allegations of sexual misconduct, which are brought to the attention of the Diocese, to determine their credibility. The Board will advise Bishop Lori on the need for further investigation and the appropriate response.

The new Review Board has met four times over the past month and has examined the findings of the personnel file review, including the cases of Father Koziol and Father Veich. The Review Board concurred with Bishop Lori's decision on both priests to remove their authorization to function as a priest and remove them from their ministries.

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Bishop Lori's letter read at all Masses Saturday-Sunday, April 20-21, 2002

BRIDGEPORT- The Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, issued this letter to the people of the Diocese of Bridgeport.

My dear sister and brothers in the Lord:

The Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, has invited the Cardinals of the Unites States, along with the President and Vice President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, to the Vatican next week to discuss the current crisis in the American Church. We are all saddened by the revelations of sexual misconduct and the mishandling of cases. We are also saddened by the virulent attacks in the media on the Church, the clergy, and even the faithful Catholics in the pews.

This is a discouraging time for all of us. I understand that some Catholics feel that their trust has been shaken. But what I want you to understand is that I am prepared to do whatever is necessary to restore that trust. Despite our feelings of bewilderment and grief, we are driven to a new resolve to protect our children, respond compassionately to victims, and to do whatever humanly possible to ensure that sexual misconduct will never happen again.

I invite all of you to join me in prayer for the fruitful outcome of this gathering in Rome.

Here in the Diocese of Bridgeport, I have taken decisive steps to ensure that our Sexual Misconduct Policy, which we have had in place since 1991, is properly distributed, understood, and implemented. All members of the clergy, lay employees of the diocese, and volunteers in our parishes, schools, and other institutions must read and sign the policy. At the slightest suspicion of abuse, a report must be made to the proper supervisor. There can be no complacency nor discussion on this issue. Nor can there ever be enough pastoral outreach to victims or those who may be confused or hurt. This is not a matter of good public relations; it is the right thing to do.

As your new Bishop, with just 14 months on the job, I have decided to go beyond just having a good written Policy in place. Last January, I initiated a review of the personnel files of all priests and deacons in active ministry in the Diocese. I did so to ensure that every active priest or deacon is suitable for ministry. The file review of active priests is complete, and I will be announcing the results shortly. I can say this: at this time, to the best of my knowledge, there is no priest or deacon in active ministry in the Diocese of Bridgeport today who poses any threat of sexual misconduct with a child.

But I do not wish to act alone on a matter which affects us all. I need your help as mothers and father, employees and volunteers, Catholics and members of other faiths. The best prevention of this terrible abuse is increased awareness and vigilance.

On Friday, I announced the membership of our new Sexual Misconduct Review Board. These 10 men and women, all of whom are experts in their profession, are my partners in ensuring the objective and thorough implementation of our Policy. From law enforcement and prosecution to excellence in school administration, psychology, and victims' services, these members have pledged to review each case as it comes to light and offer the wisdom that comes from their experience and professionalism. I expect them to "look over my shoulder" to make sure that every allegation is handled properly, that appropiate outreach is made to a victim and his or her family, that the authorities are informed, and that our Policy is properly implemented. Nine of the 10 members are parents. They understand the problem. They love and protect their children and grandchildren. They expect the Church to do the same.

The biographies of each board member will be published in the new edition of the Fairfield County Catholic, which will arrive in your homes next weekend. They are available now on our diocesan website: Advisory Board.

During these past 14 months, I have been heartened by the warm welcome which all of you have given me in my visits to your parish. I know I can count on your assistance, advice, and prayers in the years ahead.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend William E. Lori
Bishop of Bridgeport

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Bishop William E. Lori announces members of the new Sexual Misconduct Review Board

BRIDGEPORT - Friday, April 19, 2002, 2:00 p.m.

The Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, has announced the members of the newly-established Sexual Misconduct Review Board of the Diocese of Bridgeport. The 11-member Board, which will convene on an as-needed basis, will oversee the implementation of the diocesan Sexual Misconduct Policy, and has met four times over the past month.

"This Board is playing an integral and active role in ensuring that the protection of children remains of the greatest importance to the Diocese of Bridgeport and its mission," says Bishop Lori. "They are 'looking over my shoulder' and assisting me in my commitment to act swiftly, decisively, and fairly to allegations of sexual misconduct. Every allegation will be considered by this independent Board with a pledge that my decision will be straightforward based on the wisdom of the Board and the merits of the case."

"While we have a sound Policy in place," Bishop Lori continues, "this Board will be critical to continually improve the Policy and its implementation to ensure constant vigilance and appropriate outreach to victims. The Board members bring a wealth of expertise, knowledge, and professionalism to their responsibility, and I am grateful for their assistance."

The Review Board has three principal objectives:

1. Adequacy of the Policy. The Board will examine how the existing Policy, established in 1991 and in accordance with all laws of the State of Connecticut, can be strengthened and improved.

2. Implementation of the Policy. The Board will review how the Policy is implemented among all employees, volunteers, and clergy of the Diocese, in terms of education, compliance, and prevention.

3. Review of Allegations of Misconduct. The Board will examine allegations of sexual misconduct, which are brought to the attention of the Diocese to make sure they are handled properly. The Board will advise Bishop Lori on the need for further investigation and the appropriate response.

In its meetings, the Review Board has examined the findings of the personnel file review, initiated by Bishop Lori last January. The file review is nearly complete, and the findings will be announced shortly.

The members of the Sexual Misconduct Review Board of the Diocese of Bridgeport are:

• DONALD A. BROWNE, Esq. From 1973 until 1997, Mr. Browne served as State's Attorney, the chief criminal prosecuting attorney, for the Judicial District of Fairfield. A graduate of the University of Connecticut and New York University, he has participated in all aspects of criminal prosecution, particularly criminal trials and appellate proceedings, in both state and federal courts, including the United States Supreme Court. Mr. Browne is the former Chairman of the Connecticut Council of State's Attorneys, and taught Trial Practice as Adjunct Professor of Law at the University of Bridgeport/ Quinnipiac College Law School. A husband and father of four children, Mr. Browne lives in Trumbull.
  
  
• REVEREND MICHAEL JUDE FAY. Father Fay, a priest of the Diocese of Bridgeport, was ordained in 1978 and has served in parishes in Newtown, New Canaan, and Greenwich. Father Fay has been Pastor of Saint John Parish in Darien since 1991. He holds a degree in Psychotherapy from Manhattan College.
  
  
• THOMAS G. FLYNN, M.D. Dr. Flynn practiced pediatric medicine for 31 years before his retirement in 1994. A graduate of Georgetown University School of Medicine, he is currently Associate Clinical Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at Yale University School of Medicine. Dr. Flynn is Pediatric Consultant to Americares and a member of the Board of Directors of the Catholic Medical Mission Board, the Crudem Foundation of Haiti, and Shepherds, Inc., a mentoring program for inner-city high school students. A husband and father of nine children, Dr. Flynn lives in New Canaan.
  
  
• JOHN C. FORD. For 33 years, Mr. Ford served as Claims Manager for the Travelers Insurance Company, overseeing field investigation, case management, litigation, and compensation. In 1985, he began an eight-year term as Administrator of the Commission on Victim Services for the State of Connecticut, providing advocate services to victims of crime and their families and managing crime victim compensation claims. A husband and father of 13 children, Mr. Ford lives in Fairfield.
  
  
• CLAIRE M. HINES. Mrs. Hines has more than 30 years of experience as a teacher and administrator in the public school system. Since 1989, she has served as Principal of Farmingville Elementary School in Ridgefield. A wife and mother of three children, Mrs. Hines lives in Brookfield.
  
  
• PHILIP A. LACOVARA, Esq. Mr. Lacovara is Senior Partner in the law firm of Mayer, Brown, Rowe, & Law in New York City. Former President of the District of Columbia Bar and Chairman of the American Bar Association Section of Individual Rights and Responsibilities, Mr. Lacovara was Counsel to the Watergate Special Prosecutors and Special Counsel to the New York City Police Commissioner. He also served as Deputy Solicitor General of the United States. A husband and father of seven children, Mr. Lacovara lives in New Canaan.
  
  
• JAMES T. LARKIN. Mr. Larkin is President of Global Strategy Advisors in Greenwich. In 1993, he retired as Vice-Chairman of American Express International, Inc., after 23 years of service. He is a former Captain in the U.S. Marine Corps. Mr. Larkin has served as a Facilitator of the International Theological Dialogue between Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Christians. A husband and father of two children, Mr. Larkin lives in Greenwich.
  
  
• LIANE M. PIOLI, Ph.D. Dr. Pioli is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Fairfield, with expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of childhood disorders. A graduate of Saint John's University, she serves on the State of Connecticut Panel of Examiners to perform disability, psychological, and learning disability examination for the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services. A wife and mother of three children, Dr. Pioli lives in Easton.
  
  
• JOHN P. ROGOWSKI, M.D. Dr. Rogowski is a practicing Psychiatrist. A graduate of Georgetown University Medical School, he is the attending Psychiatrist at Saint Vincent's Medical Center in Bridgeport; associate attending Psychiatrist at Hall-Brooke Hospital in Westport; and Chief of Psychiatric Services at Saint Joseph's Manor in Trumbull. A husband and father of two children, Dr. Rogowski lives in Fairfield.
  
  
• NANCY SIROIS. Mrs. Sirois recently retired as a Detective in the Stratford Police Department after 28 years. The majority of her work was spent investigating the sexual assault and molestation of children. A volunteer with the Rape Crisis Service in Bridgeport, Mrs. Sirois is a member of the Multidiscipline Investigative Team of Eastern Fairfield County, which is charged to review all cases of sexual and physical assault with children. A wife and mother of two children, Mrs. Sirois lives in Stratford.
  
  
• LEAH K. LEBEC, Ph.D. Dr. Lebec is a writer and children's advocate. She is the author of several books and articles, published in this country and abroad, on developmental disabilities and their effective treatments. A member of the Order of Malta, Dr. Lebec has served on several boards that advocate on behalf of disadvantaged, disabled, and handicapped children. A wife and mother of three children, Dr. Lebec lives in Greenwich.

Bishop Lori is in the process of adding more members to the Review Board. Their names will be announced in due course.

Assisting the Sexual Misconduct Review Board in the review of cases are three officials of the Diocese of Bridgeport: Reverend Monsignor Laurence R. Bronkiewicz, Chancellor; Reverend Monsignor Jerald A. Doyle, Judicial Vicar; and Michael T. Dolan, Esq., Diocesan General Counsel.

Bishop Lori will hold a press conference on Sunday, April 21, at 3:00 p.m. at the Catholic Center in Bridgeport. He will speak on the new Review Board and on the progress of the file review.

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Friday, April 12, 2002, 11:00 a.m.

BRIDGEPORT - The claim that Cardinal Edward M. Egan, when he was Bishop of Bridgeport, knew and failed to report to civil authorities the 1989 impregnation of a minor by former Father Joseph DeShan is false. It is also false for the Hartford Courant to claim that Msgr. William Scheyd, formerly the Rector of Saint Augustine Cathedral, fired the minor because she was pregnant.

The Diocese of Bridgeport knew that DeShan had fathered a child only when he petitioned for laicization in 1994. DeShan testified that he had had "a monogamous relationship with a woman" -- not a minor. Contained in the record is speculation on the part of his psychologist that the woman in question may have been 16 -- which was then and remains the age of consent under Connecticut law. Thus, contrary to the report in the Hartford Courant, there would have been no crime to report. Furthermore, DeShan never informed then-Bishop Egan that he had had sexual relations with a minor. Nor did the woman or her family so inform Cardinal Egan or the Diocese.

Msgr. Scheyd did not ask the woman to stop working at the rectory, even though he was unsatisfied with her job performance. Certainly, he did not fire her because she was pregnant. Msgr. Scheyd was unaware of the relationship between DeShan and the woman.

The media failed to give either the Diocese of Bridgeport or Cardinal Egan sufficient notice to respond appropriately. Neither was informed until the story was about to go to press. The story irresponsibly ascribes knowledge and motives to Cardinal Egan and the Diocese that are false.

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Wednesday, March 13, 2002

BRIDGEPORT - The Sexual Misconduct Policy of the Diocese of Bridgeport was published in January 1991 and was distributed to Diocesan employees as well as priests and deacons. All employees and clergy are required to read and sign the policy, which concurs with all state and federal laws and is designed to prevent sexual harassment and abuse. The Diocesan Sexual Misconduct Policy was revised in March 2001 and implemented with renewed emphasis by Bishop William E. Lori after his Installation as the Fourth Bishop of Bridgeport on March 19, 2001.

To view the Diocese of Bridgeport's Sexual Misconduct Policy, click here.

The Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, has issued the following statement:

The 285 priests and 86 deacons in active ministry in the Diocese of Bridgeport are my brothers and close co-workers in accomplishing the Lord's work throughout Fairfield County. Day in and day out, they labor as good, faithful, and holy priests and deacons who are committed to their sacred mission to bring the Good News to the people. They deserve our support and gratitude. We pray for one another daily, and reach out to one another in times of illness, crisis, or discouragement.

At the same time, I, like my brother priests and deacons, remain deeply troubled by the specter of the sexual abuse of minors - a tragic problem confronting our society and indeed the Catholic Church. Of deepest concern are those who are the victims of abhorrent behaviors that cause so much harm and suffering in their lives. Perpetrators of the sexual abuse of minors are found in every segment of society, most often in the family setting. But it is particularly disturbing when perpetrators are members of the clergy or others who are entrusted with special roles of service to the young. I cannot stress too much that sexual abuse is completely contrary to the identity, life and mission of a priest, deacon, or anyone else employed by or volunteering in the Diocese of Bridgeport or in the Church at large.

Let me reiterate my sincere apologies, indeed my remorse, to all who have been affected by such reprehensible behavior. Permit me also to indicate the response of the Diocese of Bridgeport to the tragedy of the sexual abuse of minors:

1) Since 1991, the Diocese of Bridgeport has had a comprehensive policy on the sexual abuse of minors. It was developed with the help of qualified individuals and was updated as late as last year. It is fully compliant with the laws of the State of Connecticut. Its purposes are twofold:

i) To prevent, as far as possible, the sexual abuse of minors and sexual harassment in the workplace;
ii) When credible allegations are received, to set in motion a swift and comprehensive response which reaches out to possible victims with counseling and assistance; which cooperates fully with the requirements of the law; which relieves the alleged perpetrator(s) of their duties; and which provides evaluation and treatment for the alleged perpetrator(s) from among the clergy.

2) This policy has been distributed and explained to the clergy and to diocesan employees. They are required to indicate their compliance with this policy. I am committed to its vigorous implementation.

3) Note that the policy requires clergy and diocesan employees to report incidents or even suspicions of the sexual abuse of minors to their immediate superiors who, in turn, are mandated to inform at once the Chancellor, Monsignor Laurence Bronkiewicz. As soon as such a report is received, the response called for in the policy begins. The policy also reminds mandated reporters of their obligation to report allegations of sexual abuse under state law.

4) The Diocese of Bridgeport has cooperated with civil authorities in the past and will do so in the future. Care is taken to preserve the good reputation of clergy, employees, and volunteers who may be subjected to unfounded accusations. At the same time, the Diocese is fully committed to complete adherence to the reporting requirements established in Connecticut law.

5) Over the past several months, the Diocese has been reviewing its implementation of the Sexual Misconduct Policy. The review is ongoing and includes both priests and deacons. At this point, I can say that, to the best of my knowledge, there are no priests or deacons of the Diocese of Bridgeport in active ministry who pose any threat of committing sexual misconduct with a minor.

6) I would also like to take this opportunity to announce that I intend to create an Advisory Board for the Diocese of Bridgeport to assist me in the vigorous implementation of the Diocese of Bridgeport's Policy on Sexual Misconduct. Although still in the planning phase, I intend the Board to consist of a panel of experienced and qualified people - including psychologists, physicians, legal experts, and others - to help, on a case-by-case basis, in reviewing and investigating allegations of child sexual abuse; in responding to those allegations that are credible; and in helping the victims of that abuse. Similar Boards have been created in other dioceses throughout the county and have proven extremely helpful in assessing and responding to these issues.

The intense focus on the sexual abuse of minors should prompt each one of us to a much deeper and more faithful discipleship to Jesus Christ. Far from weakening our Faith, this terrible problem demonstrates our need to rely on the Lord's wisdom, forgiveness, and strength in rejecting attitudes and behaviors utterly contrary both to the Gospel and to authentic human dignity. Good policies, just laws, and sound professional assistance are all indispensable. Ultimately, however, what is required of us all is a profound, grace-driven conversion of mind and heart. As your Pastor, I commit the Diocese of Bridgeport to that path of conversion.

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VATICAN CITY -(Editor’s note: On April 23, Pope John Paul II opened the extarordinary gathering of U.S. Cardinals at the Vatican to discuss the scandal of sexual abuse with the following address.)

I am confident that your discussions here will bear much fruit for the good of the Catholic people of the U.S. You have come to the house of the Successor of Peter, whose task it is to confirm his brother bishops in faith and love, and to unite them around Christ in the service of God’s people. The door of this house is always open to you. All the more so when your communities are in distress.

Like you, I, too, have been deeply grieved by the fact that priests and religious, whose vocation it is to help people live holy lives in the sight of God, have themselves caused such suffering and scandal to the young. Because of the great harm done by some priests and religious, the Church herself is viewed with distrust, and many are offended at the way in which the Church’s leaders are perceived to have acted in this matter. The abuse which has caused this crisis is by every standard wrong and rightly considered a crime by society; it is also an appalling sin in the eyes of God. To the victims and their families, wherever they may be, I express my profound sense of solidarity and concern.

Power of Conversion
It is true that a generalized lack of knowledge of the nature of the problem and also at times the advice of clinical experts led bishops to make decisions which subsequent events showed to be wrong. You are now working to establish more reliable criteria to ensure that such mistakes are not repeated. At the same time, even while recognizing how indispensable these criteria are, we cannot forget the power of Christian conversion, that radical decision to turn away from sin and back to God, which reaches to the depths of a person’s soul and can work extraordinary change.

Neither should we forget the immense spiritual, human, and social good that the vast majori-ty of priests and religious in the United States have done and are still doing. The Catholic Church in your country has always promoted human and Christian values with great vigor and generosity, in a way that has helped to consolidate all that is noble in the American people.

A great work of art may be blemished, but its beauty remains; this is a truth which any intellectually honest critic will recognize. To the Catholic com-munities in the United States, to their pastors and members, to the men and women religious, to teachers in Catholic universities and schools, to American missionaries in all parts of the world, go the wholehearted thanks of the entire Catholic Church and the personal thanks of the Bishop of Rome.

Grave Crisis
The abuse of the young is a grave symptom of a crisis affecting not only the Church but society as a whole. It is a deep-seated crisis of sexual morality, even of human relationships, and its prime victims are the family and the young. In addressing the problem of abuse with clarity and determi-nation, the Church will help society to understand and deal with the crisis in its midst.

It must be absolutely clear to the Catholic faithful, and to the wider community, that bishops and superiors are concerned, above all else, with the spiritual good of souls. People need to know that there is no place in the priesthood and religious life for those who would harm the young. They must know that bishops and priests are totally committed to the fullness of Catholic truth on matters of sexual morality, a truth as essential to the renewal of the priesthood and the episcopate as it is to the renewal of marriage and family life.

We must be confident that this time of trial will bring a purification of the entire Catholic community, a purification that is urgently needed if the Church is to preach more effectively the Gospel of Jesus Christ in all its liberating force. Now you must ensure that where sin increased, grace will all the more abound (Romans 5:20). So much pain, so much sorrow must lead to a holier priesthood, a holier episcopate, and a holier Church.

Courage, Harmony, Purpose
God alone is the source of holiness, and it is to Him above all that we must turn for forgiveness, for healing, and for the grace to meet this challenge with uncompromising courage and harmony of purpose. Like the good shepherd of last Sunday’s Gospel, pastors must go among their priests and people as men who inspire deep trust and lead them to restful waters (Psalms 22:2).

I beg the Lord to give the bishops of the United States the strength to build their response to the present crisis upon the solid foundations of faith and upon genuine pastoral charity for the victims, as well as for the priests and the entire Catholic community in your country. And I ask Catholics to stay close to their priests and bishops, and to support them with their prayers at this difficult time. “People need to know that there is no place in the priesthood and religious life for those who would harm the young.”

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BRIDGEPORT, Monday, April 29, 2002, 12 p.m.

The Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, announced today that a priest has submitted his resignation as Pastor and, accordingly, has had his authorization to function as a priest withdrawn.

The priest, who resigned on Saturday, April 27, is:

• Father William D. Donovan, Pastor of Holy Family Parish in Fairfield. Father Donovan, who has been convicted three times for driving while under the influence of alcohol, appeared in court this morning and was sentenced to a mandatory 150 days as a subsequent D.U.I. offender. Acknowledging the abuse of alcohol as a contributing factor, Father Donovan has also admitted a sexual relationship with a young man. Whether the man was a minor at the time of the misconduct is unclear. Ordained to the priesthood in 1961, Father Donovan, 66, has been assigned to Holy Family Parish since 1989.

In line with the Sexual Misconduct Policy of the Diocese of Bridgeport, Father Donovan is also required to be sent for psychiatric evaluation and treatment, which will take place after he completes his sentence.

Bishop Lori was present at the 5:00 p.m. Sunday Mass yesterday at Holy Family Parish to make the announcement on Father Donovan. Information was distributed on counseling and support services that are available through Catholic Family Services, a division of Catholic Charities of Fairfield County. Follow-up informational meetings will be scheduled at the parish.

Effective immediately, Father Eugene R. Szantyr, Assistant Pastor of Holy Family Parish, will act as temporary administrator of the parish until a new Pastor is appointed.

The allegation of sexual misconduct was brought to the attention of the Diocese of Bridgeport on Thursday afternoon, April 25, when Monsignor Laurence R. Bronkiewicz, Chancellor, and Michael T. Dolan, Diocesan General Counsel, met with the victim and his stepfather. On Friday morning, April 26, Mr. Dolan informed Mr. Neil Kelly, Assistant State's Attorney of the Fairfield Judicial District, of the allegation of sexual misconduct involving Father Donovan.

With the help of the Sexual Misconduct Review Board, the Diocese of Bridgeport is currently investigating a small number of new complaints. Each complaint involves alleged misconduct which took place in the 1980s or earlier. Based upon conversations which the Diocese of Bridgeport has had with the State's Attorney's Office, complaints for which a report is expected will be submitted to the State's Attorney.

"It is our hope that a new spirit of openness and vigilance may help victims of sexual misconduct and their families find the courage to come forward," said Bishop Lori. "We remain committed to meeting with any victim and to dealing with all allegations, in tandem with the Review Board, swiftly, decisively, and fairly."

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Father William D. Donovan

Born: 1935, Seymour, CT
Ordained: 1961, Bridgeport

Assignments:

Priest in Residence
1961-1966, Saint John Parish, Darien
1966-1973, Convent of the Sacred Heart, Greenwich

Assistant Pastor
1973-1982, Saint Thomas More Parish, Darien
1982-1983, Saint Rose of Lima Parish, Newtown
1983-1989, Saint Leo Parish, Stamford

Pastor
1989-2002, Holy Family Parish, Fairfield

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BRIDGEPORT - Monday, April 29, 2002, 8:30 p.m.

Fulfilling his pledge to respond swiftly, decisively, and fairly to all allegations of sexual misconduct, the Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, announced this evening that a priest has resigned and, accordingly, has had his authorization to function as a priest withdrawn. The action was taken following interviews with two men who claimed to have been abused by this priest in the late 1970s and the early 1980s.

The priest who has been removed is:

• Father Alfred J. Bietighofer, Assistant Pastor of Saint Andrew Parish in Bridgeport. Ordained to the priesthood in 1965, Father Bietighofer, 64, has been assigned to Saint Andrew Parish since October 2001.

These allegations of sexual misconduct were unknown to the Diocese of Bridgeport until yesterday, when they were published in a local newspaper. This morning, the Diocese reached out to the complainants’ attorney, Jason Tremont, to request a meeting as soon as possible. Two of the complainants met with Bishop Lori at 5:30 p.m. today.

Following the meeting, Bishop Lori met with Father Bietighofer to discuss the allegations. During that meeting, Father Bietighofer voluntarily withdrew from his parish assignment and Bishop Lori removed his authorization to function as a priest.

“To facilitate reconciliation and healing, the Diocese of Bridgeport stands ready to meet with anyone who believes he or she has been a victim of sexual abuse,” Bishop Lori says. “We also pledge to respond swiftly, decisively, and fairly to all allegations. In the case of Father Bietighofer, the allegations from the two gentlemen were credible enough to warrant immediate action, in line with our Policy. We will bring the specific details of the case before the Sexual Misconduct Review Board at its next meeting.”

In line with the Sexual Misconduct Policy of the Diocese of Bridgeport, Father Bietighofer will be sent for psychiatric evaluation. Information will be distributed at Saint Andrew Parish on counseling and support services that are available through Catholic Family Services, a division of Catholic Charities of Fairfield County. Follow-up informational meetings will be scheduled at the parish.

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Father Alfred J. Bietighofer

Born: 1938, New York, NY
Ordained: 1965, Bridgeport

Assignments:

Priest in Residence 1966-1968 Saint George Parish, Bridgeport

Parish Administrator 1968-1974 Saint Anthony Parish, Bridgeport

Assistant Pastor 1974-1975 Saint John Vianney Parish, Chiclayo, Peru
Assistant Pastor 1975-1976 Saint Patrick Parish, Bridgeport

Pastor 1976-1982 Blessed Sacrament Parish, Bridgeport

Chaplain 1982-1984 Saint Joseph Medical Center, Stamford

Pastor 1984-1986 Saint Joseph Parish, South Norwalk

Assistant Pastor 1986-1987 Saint John Vianney Parish, Chiclayo, Peru
Assistant Pastor 1987-1988 Sacred Heart Parish, Stamford

Pastor 1988-1998 Saint Mary Parish, Norwalk
Pastor 1998-1999 Saint Charles Borromeo Parish, Bridgeport

Assistant Pastor 1999-2001 Saint Francis of Assisi Parish, Weston
Assistant Pastor 2001-2002 Saint Andrew Parish, Bridgeport

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BRIDGEPORT, Friday, May 3, 2002, 8:30 a.m.

In recognition of his role as an emerging leader on the issue of sexual misconduct, Bishop William E. Lori of the Diocese of Bridgeport has been appointed to the Ad Hoc Committee on Sexual Abuse of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). Bishop Lori was appointed by the Committee's Chairman, Archbishop Harry J. Flynn of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

The USCCB Ad Hoc Committee on Sexual Abuse will set the agenda of the June 13-15 meeting of U.S. Catholic Bishops in Dallas, TX. The bishops will discuss recommendations for a comprehensive response on the national level for handling cases of clergy sexual misconduct.

Bishop Lori's appointment is part of a planned enlargement and reconstitution of the Ad Hoc Committee, which was founded in March 1993 to gather information on how dioceses across the country were dealing with the problem of sexual abuse, and to offer recommendations on enhancing the Church's response.

"I am honored and privileged to be asked to serve on the U.S. Bishops' Ad Hoc Committee on Sexual Abuse," says Bishop Lori. "The protection of children is of utmost concern to me and my brother bishops. We feel a great sense of urgency on this matter. We head into the June meeting with a strong sense of commitment, and hope to emerge with a national policy which will reach out to victims, set guidelines for response, and help people to restore their trust in the Church."

The USCCB Ad Hoc Committee on Sexual Abuse is mandated to:

• Explore ways to assist dioceses to deal effectively with priests who sexually abuse minors and others;
• Examine what the USCCB can do pastorally nationwide to assist in the healing of victims and their families;
• Address the issue of morale of bishops and priests burdened with the terrible offenses of a few;
• Assist bishops in screening candidates for priestly ministry;
• Recommend steps to safeguard against sexual abuse of minors by employees or volunteers of the Church;
• Address the national problem of sexual abuse of children, coming from many directions, especially from within families.

For more information on the USCCB Ad Hoc Committee on Sexual Abuse and the policy and efforts of the Catholic Church to combat sexual abuse, visit www.usccb.org/comm/restoretrust.htm.

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BRIDEPORT - Friday, May 3, 2002, 1:00 p.m.

In a spirit of outreach and compassion to victims of sexual misconduct and the wider parish and school communities, the Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, announced today the creation of an emergency response team to oversee the swift distribution of counseling services and care.

In the event of a crisis, the eight-member Catholic Charities Emergency Response Team will respond quickly to reach out to the needs of the victim and the victim's family, and the impacted parish or school community. Consisting of professionals in the fields of behavioral health, counseling, and crisis management, the team will coordinate the offer of counseling services to victims and their families, and organize an assembly of parishioners, Catholic school parents, and other parties to share information on available resources.

"Our response to victims of sexual misconduct must be compassionate, thorough, and swift," says Bishop Lori. "The creation of this team, drawing on the outstanding experience and resources of Catholic Charities, goes beyond our existing Sexual Misconduct Policy. It will play an integral role as the healing process begins, both directly in terms of the victim, and indirectly in terms of the wider community."

"We hope to connect the greatest needs with the best resources for healing," explains Michael Tintrup, Team Leader. "Our Team members are professionals experienced in the administration of counseling and in the assessment of needs and priorities. Our ultimate goals are the alleviation of pain and post-traumatic stress, and the commencement of the healing and recovery processes."

The first priority of the new Catholic Charities Emergency Response Team is to address the needs of victims and communities in the Diocese of Bridgeport whom have been affected during the past month by announcements of clergy resignations.

The members of the Catholic Charities Emergency Response Team are:

• REVEREND LAWRENCE J. CARROLL, Pastor of Saint Pius X Parish in Fairfield. Ordained in 1981, Father Carroll is a former teacher and spiritual director at Notre Dame High School in Fairfield. He was Pastor of Saint Joseph Parish in Brookfield for four years before his appointment to Saint Pius X Parish earlier this year.
  
  
• SUSAN EMERSON, L.C.S.W., Clinician II, Catholic Family Services of Danbury. Ms. Emerson has six years' clinical and managerial experience in the delivery of counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. A member of the Catholic Family Services' Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Team, she has worked for Catholic Charities since 1997.
  
  
• ARMAND R. FABBRI, Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Bridgeport since 1994. Mr. Fabbri oversees 12,000 students and 750 teachers in 33 Catholic elementary schools, five high schools, and one special education school in Fairfield County. With more than 40 years' experience in Catholic education, Mr. Fabbri is a former teacher, administrator, and principal at Notre Dame High School in Fairfield.
  
  
• MARIE KEOGH, Emergency Services Coordinator for Catholic Charities. Ms. Keogh designs and implements trauma response services, including the ongoing response to the families of victims of the September 11 disaster. She has 14 years' experience providing stress management services.
  
  
• LINDA MICHAUD, L.C.S.W., Clinician II, Catholic Family Services of Bridgeport. Ms. Michaud has 23 years' experience providing clinical counseling services to individuals, couples, and families, with extensive experience working with victims of sexual abuse. She has worked for Catholic Charities since 1981.
  
  
• MICHAEL TINTRUP, A.C.S.W., L.C.S.W., Team Leader, Director of Catholic Family Services, and Administrator of Behavioral Health Programs. Mr. Tintrup, a member of Catholic Charities since 1983, has 28 years' experience in the social services arena.
  
  
• PETER TOLK, L.C.S.W., Clinician II, Catholic Family Services of Bridgeport. Mr. Tolk has seven years' experience providing clinical counseling services to individuals, couples, and families, specializing in child treatment services. He has worked for Catholic Charities since 1997.
  
  
• SUSAN TOMANIO, L.C.S.W., Clinical Supervisor, Catholic Family Services of Stamford. Ms. Tomanio has six years of clinical and managerial experience in the delivery of counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. A member of the Catholic Family Services' Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Team, she has worked for Catholic Charities since 1999.

Bishop Lori has also announced that a specialist will be hired in the near future to coordinate oversight and pastoral care to the inactive priests of the Diocese who have had their authorization to function as priests removed.

For more information on Catholic Charities of Fairfield County, visit www.ccfc-ct.org.

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BRIDGEPORT, Monday, May 20, 2002, 10:30 a.m.

The Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, presided at the Mass of Christian Burial for Father Alfred Bietighofer at Saint Mary Parish in Norwalk. Father Gustavo Falla, Chaplain of Sacred Heart University and resident priest at Saint Mary Parish, delivered the homily to the nearly 750 people present. One hundred priests from around the diocese were also present at the funeral.

Father Gustavo Falla's homily is as follows:

I wish I could remember exactly when it was that Fr. Al asked me to do the homily for his Mass of Christian burial. Two or three years ago, as he duly responded to the diocesan request to put his funeral plans on file, as every priest is expected to do, Fr. Al told me that he would appreciate something humorous and brief, nothing too somber or sad. My response to that was that I wasn't always good at long range planning. We laughed together as we often did.

And so I find myself here today, much sooner than any of us could have ever imagined, to speak to you.

The first time I met Fr. Al was in the summer of 1993. Having been accepted into the Saint John Fisher program in Trumbull after coming from Colombia, in South America, I was in need of belonging to a parish within the Bridgeport diocese. Fr. Al and Monsignor John Sanders opened the doors of Saint Mary's. At the time, the kitchen was under the heavenly' hands of Clara DiMaggio and Marge Brennan efficiently served as housekeeper; more than a parish, I found a home away from home.

During my time here, I quickly learned from Fr. Al that being on time was not an option, that prayer was fundamental in a seminarian's life and that good friendships needed to be cultivated. Family and friends all belonged in the same category.

The presence of so many of his friends here is a well-paid tribute to someone who always wanted to be a faithful friend.

His personal interests were many: from for the Civil War to immigration issues, from Scripture commentaries to the history of the city of Norwalk, from Peruvian culture to Victor Borga, all of which spoke to me about his personal quest for meaning, for life.

A good New Yorker, Fr. Al would not hesitate to say that the tour he gave through New York City was the best I could ever find. From him I learned that Manhattan was breathtaking and that the Statue of Liberty was an expensive French gift. According to him, it was o.k. to gain a few calories from a good portion of New York cheese cake and an evening at Lincoln Center was well worth the expense. To top all that, Saint Patrick's Cathedral was the closest we could get to heaven here on earth.

Fine music and good reading accompanied him while preparing for his homilies; his preaching was challenging and his ability for making himself heard was well known in town.

Although his good deeds never made the headlines, entire families, the sick, the elderly, the poor, the migrant and the marginalized found a close friend in him. He was given the title "panino" (a child's Spanish for Godfather) He was prompted to learn Spanish and it was hard to believe that it was his second language.

In 1996, Fr. Al organized the community of Saint Mary's in order to prepare for one more ordination to the priesthood. At the time, it was my own. He had done so for two consecutive years and he would do it again in 1997, when Father Paul Check was ordained a priest after he responded to Fr. Al's challenging invitation to the Priesthood. Steve Genovese would soon follow suit and be ordained a Deacon.

After my ordination, Fr. Al was the first one to express his joy when he learned about my being assigned to Saint Charles Borromeo, in Bridgeport, a place that he had generously supported financially through the many contributions of his faithful parishioners in Norwalk. I could go on and on citing most of what I knew about him but I have to remember that Fr. Al told me to be brief.

How is it that we find ourselves gathered on the occasion of Fr. Al's unexpected funeral? I believe we will find no logical answer to this question no matter how hard we try. It is in here where our human understanding of life, will fail. It is in here where we need to count on the Divine.

It is a humbling thing to know that God, in His Divine plan, decided first to create man and woman from nothing, to transform us into His divine likeness and to make us all stewards of His mysteries. It is humbling to know that our sinful nature was to be rescued once and for all from total disassociation from God through the merciful sacrifice of Jesus on the altar of the cross. And it is even more mysterious that Jesus would choose to continue His sacramental work in His Church through the use of broken instruments, men of faith that He calls his friends.

The image of the merciful Father, Fr. Al's favorite image, as it is described in the Gospel narrative, is for the believer a fountain of unending grace and hope. Jesus uses this parable in order to describe for us what love it is that we find in God and how much of that love we can imitate. The merciful Father is generous, loving and forgiving. At the sight of his prodigal son whose return he must have patiently awaited the father rejoices, orders his servants to shower him with the best of his possessions and embraces his young man allowing for the beating of his heart to be heard by the one who had once wondered away from him. Imagine what it would be for us to know what God's loving heart sounds like.

Imagine what it can be to be embraced by God's awesome arms. The invitation is for all of us to not to loose sight of the truth in Christ and to accept that the Holy Spirit of God is the only one who can restore us to the fulhless of life!

It is of public domain that Fr. AI was accused of having caused harm to others and we have learned that he did cause harm to himself. For that reason we invoke God's generous mercy, love and forgiveness and we pray that both his faith and good deeds, which will remain forever God's exclusive knowledge, may count in his favor. Along with this we pray, indeed, that healing may soon be a reality for all victims and survivors of neglect and abuse who suffer throughout the world.

While the world has decided to keep a watchful eye on the lives of those who minister in God's name hopefully for a good reason, allow me to call on the name of Mary, who intercedes for the world in Jesus' name. In Spanish we say:

Dios te salve María, llena eres de gracia, el Señor es contigo y bendita tu eres, entre todas la mujeres, Santa Madre de Dios, y bendito es el fruto y bendito es el fruto de tu vientre, Jesús. Santa María, Santa Madre de Dios, ruega por nosotros pecadores, ahora y en la hora, Santa Madre de Dios, de nuestra muerte, de nuestra muerte. Amén. Amén.

Father Alfred J. Bietighofer

Born: 1938, New York, NY
Ordained: 1965, Bridgeport

Assignments:

Priest in Residence 1966-1968 Saint George Parish, Bridgeport

Parish Administrator 1968-1974 Saint Anthony Parish, Bridgeport

Assistant Pastor 1974-1975 Saint John Vianney Parish, Chiclayo, Peru
Assistant Pastor 1975-1976 Saint Patrick Parish, Bridgeport

Pastor 1976-1982 Blessed Sacrament Parish, Bridgeport

Chaplain 1982-1984 Saint Joseph Medical Center, Stamford

Pastor 1984-1986 Saint Joseph Parish, South Norwalk

Assistant Pastor 1986-1987 Saint John Vianney Parish, Chiclayo, Peru
Assistant Pastor 1987-1988 Sacred Heart Parish, Stamford

Pastor 1988-1998 Saint Mary Parish, Norwalk
Pastor 1998-1999 Saint Charles Borromeo Parish, Bridgeport

Assistant Pastor 1999-2001 Saint Francis of Assisi Parish, Weston
Assistant Pastor 2001-2002 Saint Andrew Parish, Bridgeport

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BRIDGEPORT, Thursday, May 16, 2002, 7:30 p.m.

Bishop William E. Lori has issued the following statement:

"I am profoundly saddened by the tragic death of Father Alfred Bietighofer. My heart goes out to his family and to his brother priests who mourn the loss of a brother, a friend, and a colleague. To parishioners and to all those whom Father Bietighofer assisted during the course of his priestly ministry, I extend my sincere sympathy and prayers.

"I am grateful to the many priests, family members, and loved ones who reached out to Father Bietighofer prior to and during the time of his evaluation at Saint Luke Institute. In the same way, we must reach out in loving concern to any victims in our community, that they may achieve renewed peace of mind and heart.

"I ask everyone to join me in praying for the soul of Father Bietighofer. With confidence, we entrust him to the Lord's merciful love. May his soul rest in peace."

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The Catholic Charities Response Team of the Diocese of Bridgeport will be on site at Saint Andrew Parish and School Friday, to offer information on supportive services.

Click here for more information on Catholic Family Service's Crisis Counseling.

Click here for a high resolution EPS picture of Father Bietighofer.

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At a press conference held at the Catholic Center on Friday, May 17, the Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, delivered the following remarks:

"Allow me to reiterate my deep shock and sadness over the death of Father Alfred Bietighofer. What a tragic moment for all of us. Again let me offer my sincere and loving condolences to his family - to Father's two sisters and brother, and to his extended family and many friends.

"My heart goes out to my brother priests and deacons - we have lost a brother, a friend, and a co-worker. I am very grateful to the priests who stayed in close contact with Father Bietighofer throughout this ordeal - to help him in the process of healing. Many parishioners mourn the death of Father Bietighofer - the distressing circumstances surrounding his death do not eradicate all the good he did in the course of his priestly ministry of 37 years.

"In the same way, we must reach out in loving concern to any victims in our community with a spirit of reconciliation and peace. May Christ's peace reign in our hearts.

"In the face of such overwhelming sorrow, what can we learn? How can we move forward in hope? We learn once again that every person without exception has dignity and worth in God's eyes and deserves and needs our compassion. We learn that the tragic problem confronting the Church during these trying times has multiple victims and that we all have a responsibility to help one another and to play a constructive role. We learn how best it is for all concerned when issues of abuse are dealt with immediately, as they happen, rather than years later. We learn again the importance of compassionate and ongoing care to all those affected by such inappropriate actions so they may find comfort and healing.

"Today I have asked the Catholic Charities Response Team to provide outreach and counseling at Saint Andrew Parish and School and to be available elsewhere as needed. This help is extended to parents and children and will be available throughout the weekend.

"I am reaching out to all my brother priests, especially those unavailable for ministry. I am sure this is a most difficult time for Saint Luke Institute and those who carry forward its mission. But the very sadness of these days also teaches us that we cannot veer from the path of facing the crisis that besets the Church with honesty, vigor, faith and compassion.

"Finally, I ask for your prayers and the prayers of everyone for Father Bietighofer and for his family. With confidence we entrust him to the Lord's merciful love. May his soul rest in peace."

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Click here for more information on Catholic Family Service's Crisis Counseling.

Members of the Catholic Charities Response Team of the Diocese of Bridgeport were present at Saint Andrew Parish and Elementary School on Friday morning, May 17, to brief the Pastor, Principal, and 10 school teachers on the tragic news regarding Father Alfred Bietighofer and to supply information on supportive services.

The following letter from Armand Fabbri, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, was sent home today to the parents of the 243 students at the school.

May 17, 2002

Dear Parents,

This letter is to inform you of the tragic death of Father Alfred Bietighofer on Thursday, May 16th. As you know, Father Bietighofer had served St. Andrew School and parish since his assignment in October.

I am further saddened to inform you that Father Bietighofer took his own life while a patient at a treatment facility in Maryland. While we mourn the needless loss of life, we are also faced with the need to create a meaningful and compassionate response to our children and parents who may feel impacted by this event.

Since we believe strongly that parents are the most trusted and comforting voices in the lives of their children, we would like to provide you with the first opportunity to speak about this tragedy with them in the manner you deem most appropriate.

I am working closely with Father Robert Crofut, your pastor, and Mr. Michael Fettig, your principal, on our response. Our teaching staff will be prepared on Monday to answer any questions your children may still have. Should parents desire the opportunity for supportive counseling, they may do so by contacting the Catholic Family Services office at 372-4301, ext 350. Agency brochures are available in the main office of the school or through the Diocesan Website.

Parents may also wish to attend the meeting with the Catholic Charities Response Team that has been scheduled for Wednesday, May 22nd, at 7:00 P.M. in Hanover Hall. This meeting will be for adult parishioners and school parents and will provide additional information and support regarding the resignation and subsequent death of Father Bietighofer.

Attached is a copy of Bishop Lori's statement which was posted on the diocesan website. In this difficult time, let us pray for Father Bietighofer's soul and for all those who are suffering.

Sincerely yours,

Armand Fabbri
Director, Office for Education
Superintendent of Schools

Click here for more information on Catholic Family Service's Crisis Counseling.

Click here for more information on Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Bridgeport.

BRIDGEPORT - Friday, May 24, 2002, 3:30 p.m.

Dr. Joseph McAleer, Spokesman for the Diocese of Bridgeport, has released the following statement regarding Carl Fabbozzi:

Carl Fabbozzi is a former employee of Saint Theresa Parish in Trumbull. Based on available information, as owner of his own landscaping company, Mr. Fabbozzi was contracted by several parishes beginning in 1971 to mow the lawns and perform other general maintenance work. He later sold his business.

From 1981-1986, Mr. Fabbozzi was hired by Saint Theresa Parish to serve as a general maintenance worker. In 1986, he left to pursue other work. In 1997, Mr. Fabbozzi was hired by Saint Theresa's as the night janitor, cleaning up the buildings after hours.

On April 10, Michael Powell called Msgr. Laurence Bronkiewicz from Florida and made a complaint that Mr. Fabbozzi had abused him in the late 1960's. He revealed that the alleged abuse occured in the late 1960s, before Mr. Fabbozzi worked for Saint Theresa Parish. Mr. Powell also revealed that he had reported Mr. Fabbozzi to the police. The Diocese offered counseling services to Mr. Powell to assist him in his own healing process.

Uncertain of Mr. Fabbozzi's relationship with the Diocese, Msgr. Bronkiewicz and Michael Dolan contacted Mr. Fabbozzi and held a meeting on April 18. Following the meeting, and given Mr. Powell's complaint, Msgr. Bronkiewicz instructed that Mr. Fabbozzi be terminated from his job at Saint Theresa's, and he was. Furthermore, it has been directed to all parishes, schools, and institutions in the Diocese of Bridgeport that Mr. Fabbozzi is never to be employed or contracted.

This was the first complaint the Diocese of Bridgeport and Saint Theresa Parish received against Mr. Fabbozzi. The Diocese has reported Mr. Powell's complaint to the Department of Children and Families. The Catholic Charities Emergency Response Team has scheduled a meeting at Saint Theresa Parish on Wednesday, May 29, at 7 p.m. to discuss the matter with parishioners and parents and to offer information on counseling services.

The Diocese of Bridgeport will cooperate fully with the authorities in any investigation involving Mr. Fabbozzi. Sexual misconduct of a minor under any circumstance must never be tolerated. Our reaction to allegations must be swift, decisive, and fair, and our outreach to victims must be compassionate and thorough.

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The following is a letter that was mailed today to all parents of students at Saint Theresa School in Trumbull:

May 24, 2002

Dear Parents,

I am writing to inform you of the termination of Mr. Carl Fabbozzi as an employee of Saint Theresa Parish effective April 18, 2002, as the result of an accusation of sexual misconduct lodged by Michael Powell on April 10th that Mr. Fabbozzi had abused him in the late 1960s.

Mr. Fabbozzi's landscaping company was employed periodically at various parishes to mow lawns and perform general maintenance work beginning in 1971. From 1981 to 1986, Mr. Fabbozzi was hired by Saint Theresa Parish to serve as a general maintenance worker. In 1986, he left to pursue other work. In 1997, Mr. Fabbozzi was hired by Saint Theresa's as the night janitor, cleaning up the school building after hours. In response to Mr. Powell's complaint to the diocese and the police, the diocese reported the allegations to the Department of Children and Families.

Since this information will shortly become public, and since we believe that parents are the most trusted and comforting voices in the lives of their children, we would like to provide you with the first opportunity to speak to your children about this upsetting news in the manner you deem most appropriate.

We are working closely with your pastor, Monsignor Louis DeProfio, and your principal, Sister Carolyn Mary Cossack, S.M.M.I. Our teaching staff will be prepared on Tuesday, May 28, 2002, to answer any questions your children may still have. Should parents desire the opportunity for supportive counseling, they may do so by contacting Catholic Family Services' office at (203) 372-4301, Ext. 350. Agency brochures are available at the main office of the school or through the diocesan website (www.bridgeportdiocese.com).

Parents may also wish to attend the meeting with the Catholic Charities Emergency Response Team that has been scheduled for Wednesday, May 29, 2002 at 7:00 p.m. in the church hall. This meeting will be for adult parishioners and school parents, and is intended to provide additional information and support.

Yours respectfully,
ARMAND R. FABBRI
Director, Office for Education
Superintendent of Schools

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BRIDGEPORT, Friday, May 24, 2002, 9:30 a.m.

The Diocese of Bridgeport has agreed to a request from the Department of Children and Families (DCF) of the State of Connecticut to report immediately all allegations it receives of sexual misconduct with a minor.

The decision follows a conversation which Michael Dolan, Esq., General Counsel of the Diocese of Bridgeport, had with DCF on May 23. Reports will be made immediately upon receipt to the Diocese.

Once the report to DCF has been made, the Diocese of Bridgeport will not discuss publicly allegations it has received regarding sexual misconduct with a minor until it has had a chance to process them thoroughly, per the Sexual Misconduct Policy of the Diocese. This process includes interviews with the victims and the alleged perpetrators; outreach to victims; the deliberations of the Diocesan Sexual Misconduct Review Board; and Bishop Lori's action.

Bishop Lori has pledged to treat every allegation of sexual misconduct swiftly, decisively, and fairly. Fairness requires sufficient time and not a rush to judgment, in order to protect the integrity of both the victim and the alleged perpetrator.

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BRIDGEPORT - Friday, June 7, 2002, 5:30 p.m. The Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, celebrated a special Mass of Healing, Reconciliation, and Atonement today at Saint Augustine Cathedral. Joined by 20 priests and before a congregation of more than 200 people, Bishop Lori addressed the current crisis in the Catholic Church and issued a call for forgiveness.

Bishop Lori will join his brother bishops in Dallas, TX, June 13-15, to discuss the draft of a national Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. The document was written by the Ad Hoc Committee on Sexual Abuse of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, of which Bishop Lori is a member.

As part of the spiritual preparation for this historic meeting, Bishop Lori designated today, the Church's celebration of the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, as a Day of Healing, Reconciliation, and Atonement in the Diocese of Bridgeport. Priests in all 87 parishes in Fairfield County observed this special intention as they celebrated Mass, arranged Eucharistic Adoration, and heard Confessions.

"Every one of us, and certainly myself included, are in need of redemption, are in need of God's forgiveness, are in need of God's mercy," Bishop Lori said in his homily today. "And as a Church, the Diocese of Bridgeport, the Church of the United States, indeed the Church throughout the world, seeks healing and renewed strength for the task of proclaiming the Gospel and worshipping in spirit and in truth."

An excerpt from Bishop Lori's homily at Saint Augustine Cathedral today follows:

"Today, the Feast of the Sacred Heart, we celebrate the heart of all that matters -- the Sacred Heart of Jesus. And in the Sacred Heart of Jesus we are given a glimpse of what the heart of God is like. When Jesus' heart was pierced with a lance, as He died upon the Cross, we get a glimpse of the heart of the God who loves us so very much.

"Looking at the heart of Jesus, we contemplate the divine love we find in His heart. We turn to the Lord in this hour of crisis in the life of the Church to seek forgiveness, healing, and renewed hope.

"First, we look for forgiveness. In a few days, the Bishops of the United States will go to Dallas to consider a document on the sexual abuse of minors. In that document we Bishops acknowledge our profound responsibility for this crisis. Accordingly, we seek forgiveness from God, from the Church, and from those who have been harmed. Today, I stand before you as I stand before the Church at Bridgeport, to ask your forgiveness, to seek your understanding, and to solicit your prayers.

"And from forgiveness, there flows healing. What must be healed are the wounds inflicted by abuse in the lives of victims, many of whom carry with them terrible, terrible burdens. We can only sense their pain, and listen to their pain. And with these victims, our parish communities, many them so deeply affected, are in need of healing and renewal.

"We seek healing also for our priests -- the tremendous majority of priests who live their vocations joyfully, generously, and effectively. And yet, many of them feel, so understandably, that their vocations and reputations have been called into question by the actions of few. We seek healing for priests who are burdened. And we do so knowing that every one of us, and certainly myself included, are in need of redemption, are in need of God's forgiveness, are in need of God's mercy. And as a Church, the Diocese of Bridgeport, the Church of the United States, indeed the Church throughout the world, seeks healing and renewed strength for the task of proclaiming the Gospel and worshipping in spirit and in truth.

"With forgiveness and healing comes hope -- a hope inspired not solely on policies and procedures, as necessary and vitally needed as they are. But the real basis for our hope is the love we find in the heart of the crucified and risen Lord Jesus. The love that you and I experience at every Mass, the love we experience from taking part in the Sacrament of Penance, in Reconciliation. The love we experience when we forgive one another. The love we experience in our moments of daily, quiet prayer as we ponder the Scriptures.

"May the love of the Sacred Heart prompt me and prompt all of us to address the present crisis with deep faith, with openness of spirit, with vigor, and with compassion. And may we do so in the hope that the Church, the Church that we love so much, will emerge stronger, more united, and holier than before. May God bless us and keep always us in His love."

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BRIDGEPORT - Tuesday, June 4, 2002, 5:30 p.m.

The Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, has issued the following statement regarding the draft Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops:

"The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People is a work in progress, a snapshot of the Bishops at work on a subject of the utmost importance. I fully expect that the draft document will be strengthened following further discussion in Dallas, especially with respect to past offenses.

"This first draft of the Charter contains a number of fundamental messages: the protection of children; outreach to victims of abuse; assurances to the faithful that our priests are trustworthy; and the commitment of Bishops across the country to act responsibly and accountably in all cases of sexual abuse.

"I ask for the prayers of the People of God in the Diocese of Bridgeport as my brother Bishops and I continue on our journey, allowing sunshine to light our path towards the restoration of trust and the protection of all our children and young people."

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For more information on the USCCB draft Charter, visit www.nccbuscc.org.

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BRIDGEPORT -- Bishop William E. Lori mailed the following letter to every Catholic household in the Diocese of Bridgeport, which covers all of Fairfield County.

June 19, 2002

Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,

In these days following the bishops' meeting in Dallas, I want to offer you a brief report concerning the response of the Church in the United States to the sexual abuse of minors. Please allow me to summarize the decisions that were reached and how they are being implemented in the Diocese of Bridgeport.

Before doing so, however, I first want to thank all of you for your prayers. Throughout the intense days of that meeting, I knew I was accompanied and supported by the prayers and good wishes of so many of you. In a special way, I want to thank my brother priests for their support and understanding during days that are so stressful for them. It cannot be said too often: the vast, vast majority of priests serve the Lord and the Church with great fidelity, generosity, and love. Dear friends, our priests need and deserve the support encouragement of us all.

As you may have read, the bishops, at their recent meeting, considered and approved two documents: first, a Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People; second, "essential norms" which will make what is in the Charter a part of church law for the United States. Both documents can be found, in their entirety, on the websites of the Diocese of Bridgeport (www.bridgeportdiocese.com) and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (www.usccb.org), and in the forthcoming edition of Fairfield County Catholic. I invite you to read and study personally these brief but very important documents.

Here are some of the main features of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People:

• The Charter is a comprehensive framework for addressing sexual abuse. It seeks to protect minors, to reach out to victims, to ensure that those who serve you in the Church are trustworthy, and that bishops are accountable for responding properly to all allegations of sexual abuse. The document pertains to all Church personnel - priests, deacons, employees, and volunteers. Passed by an overwhelming majority, we bishops have bound and committed ourselves to implementing it promptly.
  
  
• The document opens with an apology from the bishops to the victims of the sexual abuse of minors, and to the priests and people we serve, for mishandling allegations and cases of abuse. We take responsibility for this crisis and pledge to work with you, the laity, and with priests, deacons, and religious in addressing this crisis with candor and vigor. I make this pledge my own as I seek to reach out to victims and to seek your advice, your help, and support in addressing this crisis as it affects us here in the Diocese of Bridgeport.
  
  
• The Charter calls for each diocese to establish a review board principally made up of lay persons who are not employed by the Church. The function of this board is to assess diocesan policies on the sexual abuse of minors, to examine how each allegation of abuse is handled, and to advise the bishop on the proper response to specific allegations of abuse. A highly qualified review board has functioned in the Diocese of Bridgeport since March of this year. I am very grateful for their counsel. In the coming days, I shall ask them to study the Charter and the Norms to see what further steps the Diocese of Bridgeport needs to take to implement them fully.
  
  
• Each diocese is to report allegations of sexual abuse to civil authorities when the victim is still a minor. In cases where the victim has reached adulthood, each diocese is also to cooperate in reporting allegations to the civil authorities. In all cases, the dioceses are to cooperate with victims in making sure that civil authorities are aware of such allegations. The Diocese of Bridgeport promptly reports all allegations of sexual abuse to the State of Connecticut's Department of Children and Families (DCF) and has pledged to work cooperatively with the State's Attorney.
  
  
• According to the Charter, when a priest or deacon has admitted to the sexual abuse of a minor or when an allegation has been established as true, that priest or deacon will be permanently removed from ministry. This includes even one act of such abuse - past, present, or future. The bishop is to observe the procedures in church law for doing this and is to consider the various ways that church law provides for dealing with such cases, including loss of the clerical state without the consent of the priest or deacon (involuntary laicization). Even when a priest is not laicized (for example, in cases of infirmity or advanced age), an offending priest is not to say Mass before a congregation, wear clerical garb, or present himself as a priest in good standing. Care must be taken, however, to ensure that the good names of innocent priests are not ruined by false allegations.
  
  
• In early January, I asked that personnel files of all clergy in the Diocese of Bridgeport be reviewed. The results of that review were shared with my review board and subsequently I announced the removal of a number of priests. I have pledged to deal with all allegations of sexual abuse swiftly, decisively, fairly, and openly. I renew that pledge to you here and now.
  
  
• In addition, the Charter calls upon each diocese to take education and prevention measures so as to create "safe environments" for children and young people. Currently, I am exploring better ways to do this in the Diocese of Bridgeport.
  
  
• The Charter also directs that the Bishops' Conference will establish and staff a national office and a national lay review board. The chair of this board is Governor Frank Keating of Oklahoma and it will include many other qualified individuals. With input from this board, the national office will publish an annual report, citing dioceses not in compliance with the Charter.

As mentioned previously, the Norms, approved by the bishops, summarize the essential provisions of the Charter and will make them particular law for the Church in the United States. Already the bishops have bound themselves to the Charter. The Norms will require recognitio (approval) by the Holy See and will be reviewed after two years.

Dear friends, these steps, crucial though they be, constitute only a beginning. We can and will emerge from this crisis stronger than we are now only if each one of us, myself included, lives our vocation more prayerfully and virtuously. Each of us is called to holiness. Each of us is called to embrace, internalize, and to live what Christ teaches us through the Church. And how important it is that we prayerfully support one another in the vocation God has given us. The laity do not grow stronger when the clergy are weakened. Nor do the clergy benefit from a weakened laity. On the contrary, the Church is a communion of life and love. Our various vocations to marriage and family, to consecrated life, to the single life in the world, to priesthood, and to the diaconate - all these ways of discipleship work together so that the Church may bear convincing witness to Jesus Christ and His saving love.

Let me conclude this brief report by seeking your prayers for the priests who serve you. From September 22-25, I will gather with my diocesan priests for a time of prayer and reflection on our life and ministry. Known as the Convocation, this gathering will be, through God's grace, a time of genuine spiritual and apostolic renewal for us who serve you. All of us seek your prayers.

At the suggestion of the priests who are organizing this gathering, I respectfully ask for a special 40-day period of prayer, beginning with the Feast of the Assumption (August 15th) and extending through the end of the Convocation (September 25th). Each of us would be most heartened to be the subject of your daily prayers. Each of us would find encouragement and strength as we join with you in some form of daily sacrifice or some special way of serving those in need. In this way, we can grow together in holiness, unity, and joy.

With all my heart, I thank all of you for your deep faith, your patience, your counsel, and your love. May the Lord bless you and your families and keep you always in His love.

Faithfully in Christ,

Most Reverend William E. Lori
Bishop of Bridgeport

To read the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People
that was passed by a vote of 239-13 on June 14, click here.

To read the Essential Norms for Diocesan/Eparchial Policies Dealing with
Allegations of Sexual Abuseof Minors by
Priests, Deacons, or Other Church Personnel
that was passed at the Bishops' Meeting, click here.

BRIDGEPORT, Monday, July 1, 2002, 9:30 a.m. - The Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, today announced two new Chancery appointments in the Diocese of Bridgeport, each historic in its own right. For the first time in the 49-year history of the diocese, the position of Chancellor will be held by a lay person. And, a brand new position, Moderator of the Curia, will be established.

WELCOME TO THE CHANCERY - Bishop William E. Lori visits with his new Chancellor, Marylee MacDougall, and new Moderator of the Curia, Msgr. J. Peter Cullen. MacDougall and Msgr. Cullen will assume their new roles in the Diocese of Bridgeport on September 3. (Photo by John Glover)

Monsignor J. Peter Cullen, Pastor of Saint Aloysius Parish in New Canaan and Vicar for Development of the Diocese of Bridgeport, will become Moderator of the Curia, effective September 3. Msgr. Cullen has also been appointed a Vicar General of the Diocese, joining the two other Vicars General, Msgr. Thomas Driscoll and Msgr. William Scheyd.

Marylee A. MacDougall, former General Manager of the General Electric Company's International Finance Operations, headquartered in Fairfield, and a member of Saint Aloysius Parish in New Canaan, will become the new Chancellor of the Diocese of Bridgeport, effective September 3.

"Msgr. Cullen, as Moderator of the Curia, will assist in coordinating the work of the Diocesan staff of the Catholic Center in Bridgeport and help ensure the spirit of effective teamwork for the sake of the Church's pastoral mission," says Bishop Lori. "As Chancellor, Mrs. MacDougall will report to me on a wide range of operational matters, including oversight of Diocesan corporations, information management, and many other Diocesan initiatives and programs."

As Moderator of the Curia, Msgr. Cullen, 63, will be a personal adviser to Bishop Lori in a wide range of decisions. Among other duties, he will help to implement the diocesan Sexual Misconduct Policy.

"Msgr. Cullen brings to his new role tremendous pastoral wisdom and experience," Bishop Lori says.

Ordained in 1967, Msgr. Cullen first served as parochial vicar at Saint Mary Parish in Stamford. After studies at the University of Ponce in Puerto Rico, he was assigned to Saint Mary Parish in Bridgeport in 1970, becoming Pastor there in 1974. He was named Pastor of Saint Peter Parish in Bridgeport in 1980, serving until his appointment to Saint Aloysius Parish in 1985.

"I am honored to be selected for this new position," says Msgr. Cullen. "After 17 years, I leave Saint Aloysius Parish with mixed emotions, but, like my brother priests, I am ready to help Bishop Lori during these challenging times in any way I can. I hope my parish experience and pastoral skills can be used to help animate and coordinate Bishop Lori's plan for the Diocese, and bring to bear my managerial skills as a Pastor and wide experience in the Diocese. I know I can count on the prayers, love, and support of the people of Saint Aloysius as I begin my new ministry."

The appointment of MacDougall as Chancellor highlights the growing participation of lay leadership in the Church. The name "chancellor" dates to ancient Roman times, and refers to a gatekeeper in the law courts. As the position grew in importance in the late Middle Ages, the Chancellor became both a notary and the custodian of episcopal archives, an eminent position in a time of limited literacy.

The Chancellor has always been a key administrator under the Bishop, and often serves as his representative. Under present Church law, promulgated in 1983, the Chancellor need not be a priest. While this is the first time the Diocese of Bridgeport will have a lay Chancellor, many of the 194 Dioceses and Archdioceses in the United States have seen the appointment of lay men and women and members of religious orders to this position.

Graduating from the University of Massachusetts in Lowell in 1973, MacDougall, 50, entered GE's financial management training program. Over the years she has worked in both financial and human resource areas, and has extensive experience with operations overseas. As general manager of International Finance Operations for GE, she was in charge of delivering financial services to GE businesses in 30 different countries, including e-finance and expatriate services.

"I hope to effectively translate my corporate skills in finance, human resources, and operational management to assist Bishop Lori in those areas," says MacDougall. "I would like to free Bishop Lori from some of those responsibilities, so that he can devote more attention to his pastoral vision for the Diocese."

A resident of Fairfield County for almost 25 years, MacDougall and her husband, Bob, have been members of Saint Aloysius Parish since 1986. The couple has two sons, Robert, 23, and Thomas, 19. MacDougall has been a member of the Community Bible Study in New Canaan; she has been active in the Emmaus retreat teams at Saint Aloysius Parish for the past six years, and is currently president of the Our Lady's Guild at the parish, with specific focus on devotion to the Blessed Mother. For the past two years, MacDougall has been responsible for the career development module of the Life Skills program offered to women with crisis pregnancies residing at the Malta House of Good Counsel in Norwalk.

As a volunteer at Saint Augustine and Saint Peter Catholic Elementary Schools in Bridgeport, MacDougall participated in programs to assist eighth graders in the inner-city with their transition to high schools. MacDougall has completed the first-year curriculum in Education for Parish Service, a Washington-based program developed to train lay leadership in the Church.

"Mrs. MacDougall possesses a strong and active Catholic faith," says Bishop Lori. "Her love for the Lord and the Church, combined with her many skills, will be a great source of strength for our entire family of faith."

Msgr. Laurence R. Bronkiewicz, who has served as Chancellor of the Diocese since January 1999, presently fulfills most of the duties that MacDougall and Msgr. Cullen will assume. In September, Msgr. Bronkiewicz will take a sabbatical leave, while continuing to assist at Assumption Parish in Westport, where he resides.

"Msgr. Bronkiewicz has done a yeoman's service for the Diocese of Bridgeport," Bishop Lori says. "Since my arrival, he has assisted me in countless ways with great kindness and consideration. I shall forever be grateful to him for his service to me and to the Diocese."

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BRIDGEPORT, Tuesday, August 13, 2002, 8:25 p.m.

In his role as a teacher and protector of the Catholic faith, the Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, tonight warned Catholics not to be misled by the promises of “Voice of the Faithful,” the Boston-based organization of lay people seeking to “change the Church.”

“I have consistently supported greater involvement of the laity in the activities of the Church,” Bishop Lori says. “But I cannot support an organization like Voice of the Faithful which appears to promote dialogue and cooperation, but which in reality prosecutes a hidden agenda that is in conflict with the teachings of the Catholic faith.”

Bishop Lori spoke after receiving a report today from diocesan officials who met Monday with local proponents of Voice of the Faithful at Saint Jerome Parish in Norwalk. The meeting was suggested by Bishop Lori as an opportunity to listen to concerns.

“In good faith, Bishop Lori had intended to communicate his decision directly to this group, as was agreed to at the meeting, but he was obliged to issue a public statement this evening from Indiana, where he has been visiting his parents,” said Dr. Joseph McAleer, diocesan spokesman, who attended Monday’s meeting.

Bishop Lori noted that, contrary to public statements, Voice of the Faithful espouses views similar to the international dissent movement “We Are Church,” including the rejection of Church teachings on sexual morality and celibacy, and a view of conscience contrary to the traditions of the Church. The leadership of Voice of the Faithful, both nationally and locally, has publicly supported We Are Church. In fact, in a letter to the Norwalk Hour, published on March 10, 1997, Dr. Joseph F. O’Callaghan, chairman of the Voice of the Faithful group at Saint Jerome Parish, endorsed We Are Church and encouraged readers to sign a petition of support. Members of We are Church also addressed the national convention of Voice of the Faithful in Boston on July 20.

“The first job of any Bishop – and any Pastor of a parish – is to teach and defend the faith,” Bishop Lori explained. “My goal is to strengthen the Church as a community of faith, worship, and service, not to let it be torn apart by private dissenting opinions. Every day throughout the Diocese of Bridgeport Pastors meet with their people, listen to their concerns and questions, and teach the authentic truths of the faith.

"The issue here,” Bishop Lori continued, “is one of affiliation and validation. I believe Voice of the Faithful is using the current crisis in the Church to advance an agenda which neither I, nor the vast majority of Catholics, can embrace. For this reason, I cannot sanction Voice of the Faithful groups meeting in parishes or other church property in the Diocese of Bridgeport.

“While my firm stand against Voice of the Faithful may be unpopular among some Catholics,” Bishop Lori concluded, “it would be hypocritical for me – and a failure of my leadership – to imply support of an organization which is so contrary to our faith.”

Bishop Lori pledged to continue to promote a greater role for the laity to strengthen the mission of the Church in society. Expanding the lay membership of the Diocesan Finance Council, appointing 10 lay persons to the Sexual Misconduct Review Board, and introducing the first lay person in history as Chancellor of the Diocese, are recent examples of his commitment.

“The true spirit of the Second Vatican Council can be found in the close collaboration between clergy and laity at all levels of the Church,” Bishop Lori said. “As Bishop of the Diocese of Bridgeport, I cannot imagine doing my job without the advice and assistance of the laity, who help to direct the many ministries of the Church and the mission of our parishes.”

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BRIDGEPORT, Saturday, August 31, 2002, 4:45 p.m. - The Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, has formally admonished two priests who failed to inform the Diocese of Bridgeport of the location of Lawrence Brett, whose sexual abuse of minors is a matter of widespread public record.

Based on information provided to the Diocese of Bridgeport on August 28 by the Hartford Courant, Father David W. Howell, pastor of Saint Joseph Parish in South Norwalk, and Father Gerald T. Devore, pastor of Saint Maurice Parish in Stamford, have admitted to knowledge of Brett's location on the island of Saint Maarten and to not sharing this information with the Diocese.

Bishop Lori has stated publicly on several occasions the hope of the Diocese that Lawrence Brett be found and brought to justice for his destructive behavior. Bishop Lori had no knowledge of Brett’s whereabouts. Furthermore, Monsignor Laurence R. Bronkiewicz, Chancellor of the Diocese, had no knowledge of Brett’s whereabouts, as has been falsely suggested in today’s Connecticut Post. In fact, Monsignor Bronkiewicz testified truthfully in federal court in August 1997 that neither he nor the Diocese had knowledge of Brett’s whereabouts.

"I am gravely disappointed by this news," says Bishop Lori. "The failure of these priests to report Lawrence Brett's location violates the Diocese's Sexual Misconduct Policy and its mandated reporting of information relating to the protection of children. It also runs the risk of undermining the trust of the faithful in their pastors and in the Church itself."

Utilizing to the fullest extent the provisions of Church law, Bishop Lori has imposed a public penance on each priest. Effective immediately, Father Howell and Father Devore will live in a religious house for an indeterminate period of serious prayer, acts of penance, and guided reflection on their responsibility as a priest and pastor for the well-being of the Church. They will receive additional training on the prevention of sexual misconduct and on the mandated reporting responsibilities of clergy and lay employees of the Diocese of Bridgeport.

Furthermore, all priests, deacons, and lay employees of the Diocese who are required to sign and fulfill the Sexual Misconduct Policy will receive a written reminder of their responsibilities.

"This incident is a strong reminder to everyone in the Church and in society at large that we must remain vigilant when it comes to the protection of our children," Bishop Lori says.

Members of Saint Joseph Parish and Saint Maurice Parish were informed of the news at the Sunday Vigil Masses this afternoon, when a letter from Bishop Lori was read.

While they are away, the pastoral duties of Father Howell and Father Devore will be assumed by the assistant priests at each parish.

Ordained to the priesthood in 1965, Father Howell, 60, has been pastor of Saint Joseph Parish since 1986. Father Devore, 65, ordained in 1962, has been pastor of Saint Maurice Parish since 1985.

"Both priests have expressed remorse for their actions," Bishop Lori says. "With the help of this period of imposed penance, and by their future conduct, they hope to restore their trust in the eyes of the faithful of the Diocese, whom we priests are pledged to serve after the manner of Christ's selfless love for His people."

On learning of the whereabouts of Lawrence Brett from the Hartford Courant on August 28, the Diocese of Bridgeport immediately informed the civil authorities in Connecticut and Maryland. In addition, the Diocese will notify the authorities in New Mexico, California, and Saint Maarten - all publicly documented places where Brett has lived and worked over the years.

Brett is not supported by the Diocese of Bridgeport. He is not authorized to function as a priest. Now that he has been found, the Diocese will study the process of laicization, whereby Brett, who is permanently removed from the priestly ministry, could under Church law be returned to the status of a lay person.

"The assiduous efforts of the Diocese of Bridgeport to confront the sexual abuse of minors swiftly, decisively, fairly, and openly, will continue unabated, despite this disappointing news," Bishop Lori concludes. "I expect every priest, deacon, and lay employee to cooperate with Church authorities and civil authorities in the investigation of sexual abuse. I count on the wholehearted cooperation of my co-workers in fulfilling the policy of the Diocese of Bridgeport so that young people can be protected and perpetrators brought to justice."

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BRIDGEPORT, CT, Thursday, October 17, 2002, 4:00 p.m. (Updated Friday, October 18, 2002, 5:15 p.m.) - In keeping with its policy to deal with all allegations of sexual abuse and facilitate the healing process for victims and their families, the Diocese of Bridgeport announced today that it is working with the law firm of Tremont & Sheldon, P.C., to begin a mediation process towards a fair, just, and reasonable resolution of more than 30 claims of sexual abuse by 10 inactive priests.

All of the claims were brought to the attention of the Diocese of Bridgeport within the past five months. U.S. Magistrate William I. Garfinkel of the U.S. District Court in Bridgeport has agreed to act as a mediator to attempt to resolve these sexual abuse claims against the Diocese.

The details of the accused priests are as follows:

• Three of the 10 accused priests are deceased: Father Joseph H. Gorecki (who died in 1988), Father Richard J. Grady (1993), and Father Alfred J. Bietighofer (2002). Father Grady was pastor of Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish in Bridgeport, and Saint Leo Parish in Stamford.
  
  
• One was a member of a religious order: Father Stanley Bonaszek, M.M., a Maryknoll priest. The Diocese has informed the Provincial of the Maryknoll Order of the claim of sexual abuse. According to the Maryknoll Order, Father Bonaszek has no authorization to function as a priest. Father Bonaszek worked at the former Saint Anthony Parish in Bridgeport, and left the Diocese in 1987.
  
  
• One is a priest of the Diocese of Bridgeport who is living in another diocese but is not functioning as a priest. The Diocese has not yet interviewed the priest to investigate the claim of sexual abuse, but the Bishop of the other diocese has been informed.
  
  
• The remaining accused priests, all of whom are inactive and have no authorization to function as a priest, are: Father William D. Donovan, Father Martin J. Federici, Father Raymond S. Pcolka, Monsignor Charles W. Stubbs, and Joseph DeShan (who has been laicized).

In three of five lawsuits that have been filed, the former Bishop of Bridgeport, His Eminence, Edward Cardinal Egan, is named as a defendant, despite the fact that the alleged abuse occurred 15-20 years prior to his arrival in the Diocese of Bridgeport. Cardinal Egan has been advised of the lawsuits and says that he supports the efforts of the Diocese of Bridgeport to achieve a just resolution.

"The Diocese of Bridgeport has been cooperating fully with the attorneys of Tremont & Sheldon," says Michael T. Dolan, General Counsel for the Diocese of Bridgeport. "We have interviewed the plaintiffs and offered a sincere apology and counseling services. They have also been invited to meet personally with Bishop William E. Lori."

"While we understand that the lawsuits had to be filed to protect the plaintiffs' rights under the statute of limitations, we hope and expect that litigation will not be necessary," Attorney Dolan continues. "With the support of Bishop Lori and full cooperation of Tremont & Sheldon, we have begun a mediation process which we hope will result in a fair, just, and reasonable resolution."

In order to preserve the integrity of the mediation process and the rights of the victims, both the Diocese of Bridgeport and Tremont & Sheldon have decided not to comment further until a resolution has been achieved.

"I have always pledged to deal with any allegation of sexual abuse swiftly, decisively, and fairly," says Bishop Lori. "In the spirit of healing for all victims of abuse, I am confident that, in these cases, we can achieve a just resolution, which we will then communicate openly."

In recent months, the Diocese of Bridgeport has resolved three claims of sexual abuse by victims who were represented by Tremont & Sheldon. The claims involved three inactive priests: Monsignor Charles W. Stubbs, Father Joseph P. Moore, and Father Charles T. Carr. All three claims resulted in a financial settlement subject to a confidentiality agreement. The settlements were funded by the Diocese through insurance reserves.

In addition to the claims involved in this process, the Diocese of Bridgeport is also investigating a number of other claims of sexual abuse. The Diocese is encouraging the inclusion of all claims of sexual abuse in the current mediation process in an attempt to achieve a global settlement.

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BRIDGEPORT, Friday, October 18, 2002, 12:30 p.m. - The Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, has issued the following statement in response to the news from Rome today:

"The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People and its accompanying Norms should be seen as a work in progress. The solidarity of the Holy See with the Church in the United States in this difficult time is an enormous source of encouragement.

"I am prayerfully confident that the discussions between the Vatican and the U.S. Bishops will refine the Charter and the Norms so that they will continue to protect children and young people, support victims, and more clearly uphold the legitimate legal rights of the clergy and others who represent the Church.

"These ongoing discussions do not affect decisions reached in the Diocese of Bridgeport, since these have been made in accordance with the provisions of Church and civil law. I remain committed to addressing all allegations of sexual abuse in the Diocese of Bridgeport swiftly, decisively, fairly, and openly."

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BRIDGEPORT, Wednesday, October 23, 2002, 6:01 a.m.. - This morning, the Most Reverend William E. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport, issued the following statement in response to the news from the Vatican:

"I am honored to be one of four U.S. Bishops who will serve on the Mixed Commission which will refine the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, and the accompanying Norms in the coming weeks.

"Please pray for God's blessings on these deliberations. In solidarity with the Holy See, the Church in the United States is committed to protecting children and young people in a manner that is both compassionate and just."

Bishop Lori has said that these ongoing discussions do not affect decisions on sexual misconduct reached in the Diocese of Bridgeport, since these have been made in accordance with the provisions of Church and civil law. Since his installation as Bishop of Bridgeport in March 2001, Bishop Lori has pledged to deal with every allegation of sexual misconduct swiftly, decisively, fairly, and openly.

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Attention media: There is no press availability or interviews with Bishop Lori.
For updated biographical information, click here.
For a downloadable hi-res photograph, click here.
To read Bishop Lori's June 19, 2002, address to the faithful of the Diocese of Bridgeport on the Charter and Norms, click here.
To read the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' official announcement, click here.

BRIDGEPORT, Friday, December 13, 2002, 4:00 p.m. – Effective today, three priests of the Diocese of Bridgeport have resigned and have taken a leave of absence following the receipt of new allegations of sexual abuse with a minor that is said to have occurred 20 years ago.

As required by the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People and the Essential Norms, the canonical process has been launched to determine the validity of the allegations and future actions on the cases. The Diocese takes these allegations very seriously and is committed to following the procedures set forth in the Charter and Norms to their conclusion.

These are the first accusations of sexual misconduct with a minor made against each of these priests. Each priest resigned under his own volition for the good of the Church while the matter is being reviewed. The resignations should not necessarily be viewed as an admission of guilt and the priests have not forfeited their rights to due process. But since they now have no parish assignment, their authorization to function as priests has been removed.

The three priests are:

• Father Sherman W. Gray, Pastor of Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Stamford. A native of Montague, MA, Father Gray, 59, was ordained to the priesthood in 1970. He has been Pastor of Holy Name since 1987.

• Father Albert W. McGoldrick, Pastor of Saint Paul Parish, Greenwich. A native of Brooklyn, NY, Father McGoldrick, 52, was ordained to the priesthood in 1978. He has been Pastor of Saint Paul’s since 1999.

• Father Robert P. Morrissey, Pastor of Saint Mary Parish, Ridgefield. A native of Whitestone, NY, Father Morrissey, 57, was ordained to the priesthood in 1976. He has been Pastor of Saint Mary’s since 1992.

“We have always pledged to respond to allegations of sexual misconduct swiftly, decisively, and fairly,” says Bishop Lori. “In this particular case, we have acted in accordance with the Essential Norms and immediately launched a preliminary investigation.”

Bishop Lori plans to visit each parish this weekend to be with the people and express his support and concern. In addition, at every Mass this weekend at each parish, a representative from Catholic Charities will be present to speak about the counseling services available to parishioners and their family members.

This afternoon, a letter was sent to parents of students in Saint Mary Regional Elementary School in Ridgefield, informing them of the news. A Catholic Charities specialist will be present at the school on Monday morning to talk to faculty on how to answer questions with sensitivity from students.

“I am greatly saddened by this tragic situation,” Bishop Lori said. “So many lives have been upset and disrupted by this news, including the victim, the priests, and their respective parish communities. I regret that the Diocese is facing such a sad situation during this holy season of Advent. But, like my brother bishops, I remain committed to following the Essential Norms faithfully and thoroughly so that no one who works for the Catholic Church will pose a threat of any kind to a child or young person.”

The Diocese was notified of the allegations by a letter from the victim. He claims that he was abused separately by each priest on different occasions between the years 1979 and 1983, when the victim would have been between the ages of 15 and 19.

Bishop Lori has met with the victim and interviewed the priests in question. The allegations have been brought before the Sexual Misconduct Review Board of the Diocese of Bridgeport for its deliberation and recommendation. Additionally, as required by the Diocesan Sexual Misconduct Policy, the Diocese has notified the Connecticut Department of Children and Families.

The preliminary investigation will continue. Once complete, the cases will be handled according to the procedures outlined in the Essential Norms. To preserve the integrity of the process and the rights of both the accuser and the accused, the Diocese will have no further public comment until a decision has been reached.

Effective today, three priests have been assigned to serve as Temporary Administrators of the affected parishes until further notice. They are:

• Father Frank C. McGrath, Director of Clergy Personnel for the Diocese of Bridgeport, will be the Temporary Administrator of Saint Mary Parish in Ridgefield. Ordained in 1970, Father McGrath, 58, is the former Pastor of Assumption Parish in Westport and has resided at Our Lady of Peace Parish in Stratford. He will continue to fulfill his duties as Director of Clergy Personnel.

• Father Kevin T. Royal, Rector of the Saint John Fisher Seminary Residence, will be the Temporary Administrator of Saint Paul Parish in Greenwich. Ordained in 1985, Father Royal, 49, has been Rector of the Fisher Residence since 1997. He will continue to fulfill his duties as Rector.

• Father Stanley Staniszewski, C.M., Assistant Pastor at Holy Name of Jesus Parish in Stamford, will now serve as Temporary Administrator of Holy Name. Ordained in 1963, Father Staniszewski, 65, is a member of the Congregation of the Mission Order of priests (Vincentians). He has served at Holy Name since 1995.

Between now and Christmas, the Catholic Charities Emergency Response Team will visit each parish to reach out to the needs of the community. Consisting of professionals in the fields of behavioral health, counseling, and crisis management, the team will organize an assembly of parishioners, Catholic school parents, and other parties to listen to concerns and share information on available counseling resources.

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BRIDGEPORT, Thursday, October 16, 2003, 1:30 p.m. - At a press conference this afternoon, Bishop William E. Lori announced that the Diocese of Bridgeport has settled 42 claims of sexual abuse of a minor against 16 priests for $21 million. The announcement concludes one year of mediation by attorneys representing the Diocese and the 40 victims (one victim has three claims).

“We are addressing this forthrightly, and moving forward,” said Bishop Lori. “We have put in place policies and programs to ensure, to the best of our ability, that it never happens again."

Details of the settlement are listed below.

Apology and Healing

“This is a part of the healing process for persons whose lives have been devastated by the evil of sexual abuse,” Bishop Lori said. “As a Church we are deeply sorry for the destructive behavior that has been committed. Having personally met with many victims and hearing their harrowing stories, I know in my heart that we must reach out with compassion. This settlement is the right thing to do, a way to ease the hurting and allow the healing to begin. We hope that people will seek counseling, pick up the pieces of their lives, and, God willing, restore their faith and trust in Our Lord Jesus Christ and His Church.”

Bishop Lori acknowledged the assistance of Diocesan General Counsel Michael T. Dolan; Attorney Stephen P. Fogerty of Halloran & Sage, L.L.P.; Attorneys Cindy L. Robinson, Jason E. Tremont, and Douglas P. Mahoney of Tremont & Sheldon, P.C.; and U.S. Magistrate William I. Garfinkel of the U.S. District Court in Bridgeport, in reaching a settlement.

“I am grateful to everyone involved in this year-long process for their professionalism and commitment to proceed in a fair and cooperative fashion,” Bishop Lori said. “I appreciate the patience of the victims throughout this mediation process. Tremont & Sheldon allowed us to interview the victims in order to understand more profoundly what had happened to them.

“Magistrate Garfinkel, moreover, willingly gave hours of his time, meeting with me, the attorneys, and the victims,” Bishop Lori continued. “His wisdom, experience, and skill allowed all involved to reach a resolution fair and acceptable to everyone. I truly believe that without Magistrate Garfinkel’s able assistance, the process would have been much more difficult for everyone involved.”

Funding Sources

Bishop Lori assured Catholics in the Diocese that no monies have been appropriated from contributions to the Diocese, nor from the Annual Bishop’s Appeal, Faith in the Future, or parish collections.

“This settlement will be funded through insurance and the sale of undeveloped surplus property,” Bishop Lori said.

“Fortunately, we have been able to fund this settlement without having to cut back on the many essential good works and ministries of the Church,” he said.

Bishop Lori also revealed that, prior to today's settlement, the Diocese has spent a total of $16.7 million to settle 47 claims of sexual abuse of a minor. This amount, covering the period back to the founding of the Diocese in 1953, includes the global settlement of March 8, 2001, involving 26 claims. A confidentiality agreement between the plaintiffs and the Diocese prevents the release of the precise amount of the 2001 settlement.

"Purification of Memory"

In releasing today’s news, Bishop Lori echoed the call of Pope John Paul II for a “purification of memory” through acknowledgement of past mistakes and a call for repentance and conversion.

“The only way we can truly move forward as a Church and put this terrible chapter behind us is by squarely facing our past,” Bishop Lori said.

“I firmly believe that we stand at the threshold of a new era for our Diocese and the Church in Fairfield County,” Bishop Lori concluded. “We have turned a corner. We must remember the painful events of the past, learn from them, and repent. But we can move forward confident in Christ’s love that we are doing the right thing.”

Priests in the 87 parishes of the Diocese of Bridgeport will speak about healing, reconciliation, and moving forward during Masses this weekend. A letter from Bishop Lori will be passed out to Catholics as they leave Mass this weekend.

Last week, the Diocese of Bridgeport announced that The Gavin Group, an independent auditing firm, has examined the efforts of the Diocese to protect children and create a safe environment. After an exhaustive review of policies and documents, and interviews with Diocesan officials, victims of sexual abuse, and civil officials, the firm found the Diocese of Bridgeport to be "in total compliance" with the requirements of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, which is now law for the Catholic Church in the United States.

For more information on the Safe Environment Program of the Diocese of Bridgeport, click here.

Click here for the Bishop's Letter in English.

Click here for the Bishop's Letter in Spanish.

2003 Settlement: By the Numbers

In keeping with its policy to deal with all allegations of sexual abuse and facilitate the healing process for victims and their families, the Diocese of Bridgeport has worked since October 2002 with the law firm of Tremont & Sheldon, P.C., on a mediation process towards a fair, just, and reasonable resolution of claims of alleged sexual abuse of a minor by priests. All of the claims were brought to the attention of the Diocese beginning in May 2002, and involve allegations of sexual abuse dating back to the 1960s.

U.S. Magistrate William I. Garfinkel of the U.S. District Court in Bridgeport served as mediator of the process.

The details of the settlement were announced at a press conference on Thursday, October 16, 2003, by The Most Reverend William E. Lori, S.T.D., Bishop of Bridgeport.

Amount of settlement: $21 million
Number of claims: 42
Number of victims: 40 (one victim has 3 claims)

Of the 42 claims:

All of the claims were first presented to the Diocese of Bridgeport beginning in May 2002.

The allegations of sexual abuse with a minor are claimed to have occurred during the following time periods:

1960-1969: 7
1970-1979: 29
1980-1989: 5
1990-1999: 1
2000-present: 0

Number of priests involved in the settlement: 16
Number of Diocesan priests: 15
Number of religious order priests: 1

Of the 16 priests:

3 priests are deceased. Their names have already been made public.

12 priests are no longer in active ministry and have no authorization to function as a priest. Their names have already been made public.

1 priest remains in active ministry with the full support of the Diocese and Bishop Lori, as the claim of misconduct with a 17-year-old woman 25 years ago does not pose a threat to children, according to the Lay Review Board of the Diocese, which reviewed the case twice. The Diocese, moreover, has discussed this case publicly in the past.

Of the $21 million settlement:

• approximately 40 percent is being funded through insurance claims.
• approximately 60 percent is being funded through the sale of undeveloped surplus property.

No funds for the settlement have been obtained from the Annual Bishop's Appeal, Faith in the Future, individual or group contributions to the Diocese, or Parish Collections.

38 of the 42 claims in this settlement fall under the new statute of limitations passed by the Connecticut State Legislature in 2002, which extended the age to file a claim of sexual abuse from age 35 to age 48

Past Settlements

Prior to today, the Diocese of Bridgeport has also spent an additional $16.7 million to settle cases of sexual abuse with a minor.

This amount covered 47 claims. It includes the global settlement of March 8, 2001, involving 26 allegations. A confidentiality agreement between the plaintiffs and the Diocese prevents the release of the precise amount of that settlement.

All of the names of the priests involved in these settlements have been made public.

Of this $16.7 million:

• approximately 40 percent was funded through insurance claims.
• approximately 35 percent was funded through the sale of undeveloped surplus property.
• approximately 25 percent was funded through the use of returns on investments set aside specifically for this purpose.

No funds for these settlements were obtained from the Annual Bishop's Appeal, Faith in the Future, individual or group contributions to the Diocese, or Parish Collections.

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BRIDGEPORT, Saturday, October 11, 2003 - An independent auditing firm has examined the efforts of the Diocese of Bridgeport to protect children and create a safe environment.

After an exhaustive review of policies and documents, and interviews with Diocesan officials, victims of sexual abuse, and civil officials, the firm has found the Diocese of Bridgeport to be "in total compliance" with the requirements of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, which is now law for the Catholic Church in the United States.

"We are gratified to see that our continuing efforts to protect children and promote a safe environment in our parishes, schools, and other ministries are on the right track," says Bishop William E. Lori. "The Diocese of Bridgeport is firm in its resolve to respond swiftly, decisively, and fairly to all allegations of sexual abuse, reach out with compassion to victims, and build greater awareness of the problem, which will encourage prevention. We're leading the way, and inviting everyone, inside and outside the Catholic Church, to join us."

Last June, officials from The Gavin Group, Inc., a Boston-based independent firm headed by William A. Gavin, a retired FBI official, visited the Diocese of Bridgeport for one week as part of a nationwide effort to audit all 195 Catholic dioceses and eparchies. The National Review Board of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) chose The Gavin Group for its team of experienced and professional auditors with backgrounds in law enforcement and certified public accounting. Their work, in turn, is being monitored and validated by Wilfred Quigley of Philadelphia, retired partner of the auditing firm of Ernst & Young.

The goal of the audit is to determine whether adequate practices and procedures are in place to comply with the guarantees made by the U.S. bishops in passing the landmark Charter. The auditors are looking at the adequacy of such things as policies for responding to abuse complaints; outreach programs for victims of abuse; the independence and use of lay review boards; policies for removing priests who have abused the innocent; and safe environment programs.

CAPTION: An effort is under way to offer all 20,000 employees, volunteers, and contractors of the Catholic Church in Fairfield County extensive awareness training in the warning signs of sexual abuse and the correct response in accordance with the law. This session, called "Protecting God's Children," was held at Sacred Heart University for more than 500 priests, Diocesan employees, Catholic school principals, and parish Directors of Religious Education. (Photo by John Glover)

The audits began last June, and the Diocese of Bridgeport was one of the first dioceses to be audited. All documentation and policies were reviewed by the two-member audit team.

Interviews were conducted with Diocesan officials, including Bishop William E. Lori; Monsignor J. Peter Cullen, Moderator of the Curia; Marylee A. MacDougall, former Chancellor; Michael T. Dolan, Diocesan Legal Counsel; and Louise Stewart-Spagnuolo, Director of Human Resources. The audit team also spoke with the Victims Assistance Coordinator, Linda Michaud, L.C.S.W.; members of the Diocesan Sexual Misconduct Review Board, a group of lay professionals who advise Bishop Lori on the thorough response to allegations of sexual abuse; civil officials; a victim of sexual abuse; and an accused priest.

The Executive Summary of the audit report contains much praise for the Diocese of Bridgeport and its efforts to maintain a safe environment:

• "The Diocese possesses extensive media and website materials confirming their outreach and engagement, regarding the key issues of sexual abuse of minors."
  
  
• "The leadership of Bishop Lori, Marylee MacDougall, and Monsignor Cullen was productive and effective in protecting the interests of victims and offenders alike."
  
  
• "The Diocese has been aggressive and effective in making its efforts as transparent as possible to the public and parishioners, considering the restrictions of civil and criminal due process."

The report issued three commendations to the Diocese of Bridgeport:

• Commendation 1: "The creation of two new audit procedures to ensure appropriate personnel had signed the form acknowledging receipt of the Sexual Abuse Policy," which all employees and volunteers are required to read and sign their consent.
  
  
• Commendation 2: "The Diocese's Safe Environment Program, which exceeded Charter requirements. The Diocese has recently created the position of Safe Environment Director to oversee and be responsible for the program. They also recently implemented the use of a computer program ("VIRTUS") to train and track the education of personnel in sexual abuse prevention."
  
  
• Commendation 3: "Bishop Lori and Diocese personnel for their outreach and transparency initiatives. Bishop Lori had personally met with victims, accused priests, family members of accused priests, and parishioners, when allegations of sexual abuse occurred. Bishop Lori also personally participated in many conferences and media events pertaining to sexual abuse of minors and the Charter."

"Based on all of the responses furnished, the Bridgeport Diocese is now judged to be in total compliance with the Charter," wrote William A. Gavin of The Gavin Group, in a letter to Bishop Lori.

"The great result of this audit represents a huge amount of hard work by a dedicated team of Diocesan employees," says Stewart-Spagnuolo. "Catholics in the Diocese of Bridgeport should stand tall and proud in the knowledge that we have an excellent Safe Environment Program in place and that we are committed to seeing it implemented quickly and throughly."

This fall, Kathleen McChesney, Executive Director of the Office for Child and Youth Protection, will begin to compile the results of the audits and prepare a report. This report will then go to the National Review Board.

The finished work to be forwarded to Bishop Wilton D. Gregory, USCCB president, and made public. The goal is transparency, so that the Catholic faithful can gain a full measure of confidence from the results.

For more information on the Safe Environment Program of the Diocese of Bridgeport, click here.

For more information on the work of the National Review Board of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, click here.

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BRIDGEPORT, Tuesday, January 6, 2004 – As the National Audit of the Catholic Church in the United States is released today in Washington, D.C., the Diocese of Bridgeport has been found "in total compliance" with the requirements of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People and has received praise for Diocesan efforts to protect children and create a Safe Environment – efforts which exceed Charter requirements.

The results, first made public by the Diocese last October, were based on an exhaustive review by an independent professional auditing firm of policies and documents, and interviews with Diocesan officials, victims of abuse, and civil officials.

"The Diocese of Bridgeport was one of the first U.S. dioceses to be audited, when the process began last June," explains Erin Neil, M.S.W., Director of the Diocesan Office of Safe Environments and a social worker. Neil's office oversees the implementation of Safe Environment policies and awareness training. "We received our results in the fall, and given the great news, we decided to announce the results early."

Moving Forward in the Right Direction

Bishop William E. Lori agrees. "We're moving forward in the right direction, and have a great story to tell," says Bishop Lori. "The audit report validates our continuing efforts to protect children and promote a Safe Environment in our parishes, schools, and other ministries – efforts that are done with the help of qualified and committed lay people."

Bishop Lori applauds the dozens of lay people who have come forward to help the Diocese of Bridgeport in the implementation of its Safe Environment Initiative. These include:

Erin Neil, M.S.W., Director of the Office of Safe Environments

Linda Michaud, L.C.S.W., Victims' Assistance Coordinator

Philip A. Lacovara, Esq., Chairman, and the 11-member Sexual Misconduct Review Board, a group of lay professionals and one priest who advise Bishop Lori on the thorough response to allegations of abuse

"The Diocese of Bridgeport remains firm in its resolve to respond swiftly, decisively, and fairly to all allegations, reach out with compassion to victims, and build greater awareness of the problem, which will encourage prevention," the Bishop continues. "We're leading the way, and inviting everyone, inside and outside the Catholic Church, to join us."

Audit Goals

In June 2003, officials from The Gavin Group, Inc., a Boston-based independent firm headed by William A. Gavin, a retired FBI official, visited the Diocese of Bridgeport for one week as part of a nationwide effort to audit all 195 Catholic dioceses and eparchies, an accountability measure called for by the June 2002 Charter. The National Review Board of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) chose The Gavin Group for its team of experienced and professional auditors with backgrounds in law enforcement and certified public accounting. Their work, in turn, was monitored and validated by Wilfred Quigley of Philadelphia, retired partner of the auditing firm of Ernst & Young.

The goal of the audit was to examine the period from June 2002 to the present (or, since the adoption of the Charter) to determine whether adequate practices and procedures are in place to comply with the guarantees made by the U.S. bishops in passing the landmark Charter. The auditors looked at the adequacy of such things as policies for responding to complaints; outreach programs for victims; the independence and use of lay review boards; policies for removing priests who have abused the innocent; and Safe Environment programs.

Interviews Inside and Outside the Diocese

All documentation and policies of the Diocese of Bridgeport were reviewed by the two-member audit team.

Interviews were conducted with Diocesan officials, including Bishop Lori; Monsignor J. Peter Cullen, Moderator of the Curia; Marylee A. MacDougall, former Chancellor; Michael T. Dolan, Diocesan Legal Counsel; and Louise Stewart-Spagnuolo, Director of Human Resources. The audit team also spoke with the Victims Assistance Coordinator, Linda Michaud, L.C.S.W.; members of the Diocesan Sexual Misconduct Review Board; civil officials; a victim of sexual abuse; and an accused priest.

The Executive Summary of the audit report, released today (and reprinted below), contains much praise for the Diocese of Bridgeport and its efforts to maintain a Safe Environment, including:

• "The Diocese has had contact with local civil authorities regarding allegations of sexual abuse of minors, and it has cooperated with the authorities in their investigations. The Diocese has a procedure for advising victims/survivors of their right to report allegations of sexual abuse by a member of the clergy to civil authorities."
  
  
• "The Diocese has established a clear and well-publicized code of conduct for priests and deacons."
  
  
• "The Diocese has a communications policy reflecting the bishop’s pledge to be open and transparent on issues regarding the sexual abuse of children, which was commended as described above.The Diocese possesses extensive media and website materials confirming their outreach and engagement, regarding the key issues of sexual abuse of minors."
  
  
• "The Diocese has developed a series of safe environment seminars for presentation to adults having regular contact with children and for the children themselves. The Diocese has a policy that requires background investigations on all members of the clergy, employees, and volunteers."
  
  
  

Exceeding the Requirements of the Charter

The report issued three commendations to the Diocese of Bridgeport:

• Commendation 1: "For instituting administrative procedures to ensure that parishes are participating in Safe Environment Programs."
  
  
• Commendation 2: "For developing a Safe Environment Program that exceeds the requirements of the Charter," including the creation of a Diocesan position of Safe Environment Director to oversee and be responsible for the program, and the use of a computer program ("VIRTUS") to train and track the education of personnel in sexual abuse prevention.
  
  
• Commendation 3: "For the Bishop's and Diocese's exemplary outreach program and communications initiatives." Bishop Lori has personally met with victims, accused priests, family members of accused priests, and parishioners, when allegations of abuse occurred. Bishop Lori also personally participated in many conferences and media events pertaining to abuse of minors and implementation of the Charter.
  

The Diocese also received three recommendations, each of which was addressed and implemented by September 1, 2003.

"Total" Compliance with the Charter

"Based on all of the responses furnished, the Bridgeport Diocese is now judged to be in total compliance with the Charter," wrote William A. Gavin of The Gavin Group, in a letter to Bishop Lori.

"The great result of this audit represents a huge amount of hard work by a dedicated team of Diocesan employees," says Louise Stewart-Spagnuolo. "Catholics in the Diocese of Bridgeport should stand tall and proud in the knowledge that we have an excellent Safe Environment Program in place and that we are committed to seeing it implemented quickly and throughly."

For more information on the Safe Environment Program of the Diocese of Bridgeport, click here.

To read the National Compliance Audit Report of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, click here.

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The Diocese of Bridgeport (“the Diocese”), established in 1953, encompasses Fairfield County in Connecticut. It consists of 87 parishes, two missions, and 33 elementary and five secondary schools, and it serves a population of about 363,000 registered Catholics with 340 priests and 87 permanent deacons. The Most Reverend William E. Lori, who was installed as bishop in 2001, leads the Diocese. A compliance audit of the Diocese was conducted during the period of June 23-27, 2003.

The information presented below represents conditions as they were found to exist during the week of the audit. Information regarding necessary corrective actions taken by the Diocese subsequent to the audit will be found in the last paragraph.

Findings

To Promote Healing and Reconciliation

The Diocese has had a prevention policy on sexual abuse of minors since 1990; most recently revised in 2002, this policy provides for an outreach program designed to provide immediate pastoral care to victims/survivors and their families. A Commendation was issued for the bishop and his staff’s exemplary outreach program and communication initiatives. The Diocese has a victim assistance coordinator, Linda Michaud, who has a degree in social work and 22 years of related experience. A Recommendation was written suggesting that the coordinator allocate appropriate time to familiarize herself with the background and procedures of her new assignment. A lay review board was established in 2002, consisting of one priest and ten respected members of the community, including a psychologist, a psychiatrist, and a nurse. The procedures for making a complaint of abuse are readily available in printed and electronic form. However, a Recommendation was written suggesting that a checklist be developed for working with victims/survivors and alleged offenders, so that all Charter and policy requirements are followed. The Diocese has entered into no confidentiality agreements since June 2002, unless requested by the victim/survivor.

To Guarantee Effective Response to Allegations of Abuse of a Minor

The Diocese has had contact with local civil authorities regarding allegations of sexual abuse of minors, and it has cooperated with the authorities in their investigations. The Diocese has a procedure for advising victims/survivors of their right to report allegations of sexual abuse by a member of the clergy to civil authorities. The Diocese has established a clear and well-publicized code of conduct for priests and deacons. The Diocese has a communications policy reflecting the bishop’s pledge to be open and transparent on issues regarding the sexual abuse of children, which was commended as described above.

To Ensure Accountability of Procedures

The Diocese was participating in the research study [the John Jay Study] regarding the “nature and scope” of the problem of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy, but had not finished the review at the time of the audit. A Recommendation was written regarding this issue.

To Protect the Faithful in the Future

The Diocese has developed a series of safe environment seminars for presentation to adults having regular contact with children and for the children themselves. As mentioned above, the Diocese has publicized standards of conduct for priests and deacons, as well as diocesan employees, volunteers, and any other Church personnel in positions of trust who have regular contact with children and young people. The Diocese has a policy that requires background investigations on all members of the clergy, employees, and volunteers, but it does not include contractors that work for the diocese. A Recommendation was written to require that contractors be included in the background investigation procedure. The Diocese has not transferred any priests or deacons who have had credible allegations of sexual abuse lodged against them to any other diocese for ministerial assignment or residence during the time period covered by this report. However, five priests who have had allegations lodged against them are living in other dioceses, and the bishop has appropriately and confidentially notified the bishops of those dioceses of their backgrounds. The bishop and the major superiors of religious orders having a presence in the Diocese have coordinated their respective roles regarding issues of allegations of sexual abuse made against a clerical member of a religious institute. The Diocese has not had an opportunity to cooperate with other churches, religious bodies, and institutions of learning in conducting research in the area of sexual abuse of minors. The Diocese has established screening and evaluative techniques in the selection of candidates for ordination and has established ongoing formation programs for priests.

Compliance with the Provisions of the Charter

At the conclusion of this audit, The Diocese of Bridgeport was issued three Recommendations and three Commendations.

• Recommendation 1 – That the Diocese complete the research study [the John Jay Study] on the “nature and scope” of sexual abuse by members of the Catholic clergy.
  
  
• Recommendation 2 – That the Diocese revise its background check policy to include the hundreds of contract employees working for the Diocese.
  
  
• Recommendation 3 – That the Diocese develop a checklist of procedures to be used when processing victims’ complaints and dealing with accused clergy. The victim assistance coordinator should allocate appropriate time to familiarize herself with her new assignment.
  
  
• Commendation 1 – For instituting administrative procedures to ensure that parishes are participating in safe environment programs.
  
  
• Commendation 2 – For developing a safe environment program that exceeds the requirements of the Charter.
  
  
• Commendation 3 – For the bishop’s and Diocese’s exemplary outreach program and communications initiatives.

As of December 1, 2003 [actually as of September 1, 2003], all Recommendations had been addressed. The Diocese of Bridgeport is found to be compliant with the provisions of the Charter as measured by the process described in Chapter 2 in Section I.

The compliance audit measured activity that has occurred since the adoption of the Charter in June 2002 with the exception of certain mandated actions found in Articles 5 and 14. Actions taken by the diocese/eparchy prior to June 2002 to address allegations of sexual abuse of minors by priests and deacons are not included in this summary report.

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BRIDGEPORT, Wednesday, January 28, 2004 – On behalf of the Diocese of Bridgeport, Dr. Joseph McAleer, spokesman, has issued the following statement regarding a former seminarian, Leonardo Montoya:

"Leonardo Montoya is no longer a seminarian of the Diocese of Bridgeport. He was dismissed from the program on January 15, 2004.

"Mr. Montoya has denied the charges made against him today. He was dismissed from the Diocesan seminarian program for showing poor judgment in allowing himself to be placed in an inappropriate situation in which these charges could be made.

"Mr. Montoya, 30, a native of Colombia, entered the Saint John Fisher Seminary Residence in Stamford in September 2000, and Blessed John XXIII Major Seminary in Weston, MA, in September 2001. He had not yet been approved for ordination as a deacon, the step before ordination to the priesthood.

"The Diocese of Bridgeport insists on the highest standards of conduct in all of its young men who are studying for the priesthood. At present there are 26 men in formation.

"All seminarians also undergo criminal background checks and a series of psychological exams. They are required to follow all of the Safe Environment policies of the Diocese, including signing the Sexual Abuse Policy and undergoing mandatory awareness training.

"Screening of seminarians continues throughout the four-year formation process. The final decision on readiness for ordination is not made until a formal recommendation is received from the Major Seminary and is accepted by the local Bishop. This was not yet the case with Mr. Montoya."

-30-

BRIDGEPORT, Friday, February 27, 2004 - With this morning's release of the research study conducted by the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, and the report by the National Review Board for the Protection of Children and Young People, Bishop William E. Lori issued the following statement:

"With the work done by the John Jay College of Criminal Justice and the National Review Board now in hand, I wish to re-emphasize our commitment in the Diocese of Bridgeport to proper response, vigilance, and prevention. The College and the National Review Board have produced documents that clearly provide a basis for moving on, united in our determination to do the right thing and to continue to enhance the trust of the faithful."

The Diocese of Bridgeport cooperated fully with the John Jay Study and the National Review Board, as part of its strong commitment to the "Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People" and the accompanying "Essential Norms." A comprehensive Safe Environment program is now in place in all parishes, Catholic schools, and other institutions and ministries provided by the Catholic Church throughout Fairfield County.

On February 15, the Diocese released the results of its 50-year statistical analysis, as it provided to John Jay College. The release is reprinted below.

To read the reports issued by the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, and the National Review Board for the Protection of Children and Young People, click here.

To learn more about the Safe Environment programs of the Diocese of Bridgeport, click here.

BRIDGEPORT, Sunday, February 15, 2004, 1:00 p.m. " The Diocese of Bridgeport today released details of a 50-year analysis of the role of those clergy who were involved in the abuse crisis.

The data shows a very small number of clergy were involved in this issue.

The analysis surveyed the 1,279 priests who have served in Fairfield County since the founding of the Diocese of Bridgeport on August 6, 1953.

Authorized by the U.S. Catholic Bishops in Article 9 of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, the analysis is part of a national study of all 195 dioceses and eparchies in the United States, conducted by the John Jay College of Criminal Justice.

The national study will be released on February 27. Catholics in Fairfield County were informed of the release of the Diocesan analysis during Masses this weekend.

"The John Jay analysis for the Diocese of Bridgeport represents an important step in our desire to let everyone know what took place," Bishop William E. Lori said. "Going forward, we have a strict and comprehensive policy in place to maintain, to the best of our ability, a Safe Environment for every man, woman, and child in the Diocese."

Very Small Percentage of Priests

"The Diocesan data for the John Jay Study," Bishop Lori observed, "demonstrates that a very small percentage of priests who served in Fairfield County were accused of abuse, and that the majority of these allegations date back 30 and 40 years."

According to the dictates of the John Jay study, the Diocese of Bridgeport examined each priest who served in Fairfield County for evidence of allegations of sexual misconduct. These priests were Diocesan, members of a religious order, or visiting the Diocese.

Dioceses were required to report any and all evidence, whether an anonymous note or a random mention. No names were used in this study. Many of the allegations date to the 1960s and 1970s, pertain to priests long since deceased, and have little or no factual evidence to support the allegations.

The vast majority of allegations were brought to the attention of the Diocese in the last 10 years. The Diocese has had a strict Sexual Abuse Policy in place since 1991.

"Even one allegation is too much, no matter when it occurred," Bishop Lori pointed out. "Our mission is to create an environment where these sins can never be committed."

Of the 1,279 priests, 32 priests, or 2.5 percent, have had allegations of sexual abuse brought against them. Of these 32, 27 priests were ordained by the Diocese of Bridgeport. Five were ordained by religious orders or were visiting the Diocese on assignment.

Regarding the identity of these 32 priests, the names of 23 priests have already been made public by the Diocese. Of the remaining nine, seven are deceased, and two are priests from another diocese who were visiting Fairfield County.

"No priest in active ministry today in Fairfield County poses a threat of any kind to a child or young person," Bishop Lori said.

Financial Settlements

Last October, as part of the announcement of a global settlement, the Diocese released details about settlement payments made over the past 50 years. This information is also part of the John Jay Study.

Since its founding in 1953, the Diocese of Bridgeport has dispensed $37.7 million in financial settlements to resolve claims of sexual abuse. This figure includes the $21 million settlement announced in October.

The $37.7 million was funded by insurance claims, the sale of undeveloped surplus property, and returns on investments set aside specifically for this purpose.

No funds for these settlements were from the Annual Bishop's Appeal, Faith in the Future, individual or group contributions to the Diocese, or parish collections.

Commitment to Safe Environment

"As a Diocese we have demonstrated our sincere commitment to implement the provisions of the Dallas Charter and the accompanying Norms, and involve everyone – clergy and laity – in the creation of a Safe Environment," said Bishop Lori. "As we move forward, we acknowledge the failings of the past, will learn from them, and pledge to respond to future allegations of abuse with compassion and to the letter of the law."

Since his installation as Bishop of Bridgeport in March 2001, Bishop Lori has made the safety of children and the promotion of a Safe Environment a number one priority. Under the Safe Environment Initiative, launched in June 2003 and presently under way, all 20,000 clergy, lay employees, volunteers, and contractors who assist the Catholic Church in Fairfield County are undergoing criminal background checks and mandatory awareness training. A dedicated Diocesan department, the Office of Safe Environments, oversees the program and monitors compliance throughout the County.

In October 2003, an independent audit found the Diocese to be "in total compliance" with the Charter and Norms, and, in some cases, exceeding the strict requirements.

"Nothing is more important than the safety and welfare of our young people," Bishop Lori added. "We are proud of our efforts to promote a Safe Environment and will remain vigilant and proactive."

(For more information on the Safe Environment Programs of the Diocese of Bridgeport, click here.)

John Jay Study Data: Diocese of Bridgeport

The following information was submitted by the Diocese of Bridgeport to the John Jay College of Criminal Justice.

Total number of priests who have served in the Diocese of Bridgeport since 1953, Diocesan, religious order, and visiting: 1,279

Total number of allegations of sexual abuse received by the Diocese of Bridgeport between 1953 and 2003, including anonymous claims and undocumented claims: 109 by 107 individuals (one person made three claims)

Of these 109 allegations, 95 were brought to the attention of the Diocese of Bridgeport in the last 10 years.

The allegations are claimed to have occurred during the following time periods:

1953-1959............7
1960-1969..........24
1970-1979..........60
1980-1989..........14
1990-1999............4
2000-present........0
______________________

109

The allegations were first reported to the Diocese of Bridgeport during the following time periods:

1953-1959............3
1960-1969............1
1970-1979............2
1980-1989............8
1990-1999..........36
2000-present......59
__________________

109

The 109 allegations involve 32 priests, or 2.5 percent of the total number of priests who have served in the Diocese of Bridgeport. Of these 32 priests:

• 27 of the 32 priests were ordained by the Diocese of Bridgeport.
  
  
• 5 of the 32 priests were ordained by religious orders or were visiting the Diocese of Bridgeport on assignment.
  
  
• 8 of the 32 priests are deceased.
  
  
• No priest in active ministry today in the Diocese of Bridgeport poses a threat of any kind to a child or young person.

 

Since 1953:

• $37.7 million has been paid in financial settlements to resolve claims of sexual abuse.

Of the $37.7 million:

• approximately 41 percent was covered by insurance claims.
  
• approximately 59 percent was funded through the return on Diocesan investments or the sale of surplus property.

No funds for settlements were obtained from the Annual Bishop's Appeal, Faith in the Future, individual or group contributions to the Diocese, or Parish Collections.

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New Independent Audit finds Diocese remains in Full Complaince with Dallas "Charter"

BRIDGEPORT, Friday, September 24, 2004 - Officials of The Gavin Group have found the Diocese of Bridgeport to be in full compliance with the requirements of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.

This is the second audit of the Diocese, and the second time the Diocese has been found in full compliance.

This new audit covered the period from June 2003 until the present (to read the results of the first audit, conducted in June 2003 and announced in January 2004, click here).

Officials from The Gavin Group, Inc., a Boston-based independent firm headed by William A. Gavin, a retired FBI official, visited the Diocese during the week of September 6-10, 2004, as part of a nationwide effort to audit all 195 Catholic dioceses, an annual accountability measure called for by the June 2002 Charter and renewed by the U.S. Catholic Bishops at their June 2004 meeting in Denver, CO.

The results (reprinted below) were based on an exhaustive review by the independent professional auditing firm of policies and documents, and interviews with Diocesan officials and civil officials.

"I am very gratified by the results of our latest audit," says Bishop William E. Lori. "The measures that we have taken have increased significantly the accountability within our parishes, schools, and institutions to continue to build a Safe Environment. I remain grateful to the many qualified and committed lay people who help to implement our program, and for the cooperation and enthusiasm of our priests, deacons, religious, lay employees, and volunteers."

"As I have said before," Bishop Lori concludes, "we are moving forward together as a family of faith in the right direction."

CAPTION: ERIN NEIL, Director of the Office of Safe Environments for the Diocese of Bridgeport, oversees the Safe Environment Program required of all clergy, lay employees, volunteers, and contractors. The program includes a criminal background check and ongoing awareness training.

The auditors looked again at the adequacy of such things as policies for responding to complaints; outreach to victims; the independence and use of lay review boards; policies for removing priests who have abused the innocent; and Safe Environment programs.

The report affirms that the Diocese continues to respond swiftly to all allegations; reaches out pastorally to victims; reports all allegations to public authorities; conducts an investigation with the help of a lay Review Board; and has implemented a comprehensive Safe Environment Program.

Furthermore, the report highlights the following accomplishments of the Diocese of Bridgeport:

• "The bishop or his representative has met with, or offered to meet with all victims/survivors who have reported allegations of abuse since the last compliance audit. The bishop or his delegate has directed outreach to all faith communities in which the sexual abuse occurred. The diocese has a mechanism in place to respond promptly to any allegation where there is reason to believe that sexual abuse of a minor occurred. The diocese has a victim assistance coordinator, Linda Michaud, who is a Licensed Certified Social Worker with extensive experience dealing with victims of sexual abuse."
  
  
• "The diocese has not transferred any priest or deacon who has had a credible allegation of sexual abuse made against him to another ministerial assignment since the last audit [June 2003]. The diocese has not transferred any priest or deacon who has had a credible allegation of sexual abuse made against him to another diocese for residence since the last audit [June 2003]."
  
  
• "The diocese has established clear and well-publicized standards of ministerial behavior for priests and deacons. A communications policy is in effect which reflects the bishop's pledge to be open and transparent on issues regarding the sexual abuse of children. The diocese does assist and support all parish communities directly affected by ministerial misconduct involving minors."
  
  
• "The diocese has clear and well publicized standards of conduct for persons in positions of trust with regard to sexual abuse. The diocese conducts background evaluations for all diocesan and parish personnel who have regular contact with minors, using appropriate law enforcement resources where permissible. The diocese employs adequate screening and evaluative techniques in deciding the fitness of candidates for ordination."

For more information on the Safe Environment Program of the Diocese of Bridgeport, click here.

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2004 Audit Executive Summary by The Gavin Group, Inc.

Diocese of Bridgeport
Bishop William E. Lori
Previous Audit June 23-27, 2003

The information found herein represents conditions as they were found to exist during the week of September 6-10, 2004.

Findings

To Promote Healing and Reconciliation (Articles 1, 2, and 3)

The diocese has a policy on the prevention of sexual abuse of minors by clergy. The diocese provides outreach designed to offer pastoral care to victims/survivors and their families. The bishop or his representative has met with, or offered to meet with all victims/survivors who have reported allegations of abuse since the last compliance audit. The bishop or his delegate has directed outreach to all faith communities in which the sexual abuse occurred.

The diocese has a mechanism in place to respond promptly to any allegation where there is reason to believe that sexual abuse of a minor occurred. The diocese has a victim assistance coordinator, Linda Michaud, who is a Licensed Certified Social Worker with extensive experience dealing with victims of sexual abuse. The diocese established in 2002 a Review Board which consists of eleven members. The members include a former Connecticut State's Attorney, a senior private practice attorney, a physician, an insurance company claims manager, a public schools teacher, a retired vice-chairman of a major financial corporation, a clinical psychologist, a psychiatrist, a retired police detective experienced in sexual abuse investigations, a Ph.D. educator, and a priest. The Board serves as a confidential consultative body to the bishop.

The procedures for making a complaint of abuse are readily available in printed form, and are the subject of periodic public announcements. The diocese has entered into a "global" confidentiality agreement involving fifty-four victim/survivors during the audit period for reasons brought forward by the victims/survivors.

To Guarantee Effective Response to Allegations of Abuse of a Minor (Articles 4, 5, 6, and 7)

The diocese reported all allegations of sexual abuse of a minor to public authorities since the last compliance audit. The diocese complies with all applicable civil laws with respect to the reporting of allegations of sexual abuse of minors to civil authorities. The diocese has established effective liaison with civil authorities, ensuring that an open dialogue regarding sexual abuse allegations will occur. The diocese cooperates with public authorities about reporting in cases when the person is no longer a minor. In all instances, the diocese advises victims/survivors of their right to report allegations of abuse by a member of the clergy to civil authorities.

When an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor by a priest or deacon is received, a preliminary investigation, in harmony with canon law, is initiated. If a preliminary investigation so indicates, the diocese notifies the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith and applies the precautionary measures mentioned in [canon law] CIC, canon 1722, or [canon law] CCEO, canon 1473. When accusations against a priest or a deacon are proven to be unfounded, the diocese takes steps to restore the good name of the priest or deacon.

When sexual abuse of a minor by a priest or a deacon is admitted or established after an appropriate process in accord with canon law, the diocesan policies provide that the offending priest or deacon be permanently removed from ministry. The diocese offers professional assistance to offending priests or deacons.

In every case involving canonical penalties, the processes provided for in canon law are observed. Accused clergy are encouraged to retain the assistance of civil and canonical counsel. When necessary, the diocese supplies canonical counsel to a priest or deacon.

If the penalty of dismissal from the clerical state has not been applied, the diocese directs the offender to lead a life of prayer and penance. The diocese does not allow the offender to celebrate Mass publicly, to administer the sacraments, or to present himself publicly as a priest.

The diocese has established clear and well-publicized standards of ministerial behavior for priests and deacons. A communications policy is in effect which reflects the bishop's pledge to be open and transparent on issues regarding the sexual abuse of children. The diocese does assist and support all parish communities directly affected by ministerial misconduct involving minors.

To Protect the Faithful in the Future (Articles 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17)

The diocese has implemented a "safe environment" education program. The educational program for children is Child Lures; the educational program for parents is Protecting God's Children; the educational program for ministers is Protecting God's Children; the educational program for educators is Protecting God's Children; and the educational program for others is Protecting God's Children. The diocese has clear and well publicized standards of conduct for persons in positions of trust with regard to sexual abuse. The diocese conducts background evaluations for all diocesan and parish personnel who have regular contact with minors, using appropriate law enforcement resources where permissible. The diocese employs adequate screening and evaluative techniques in deciding the fitness of candidates for ordination.

The diocese has not transferred any priest or deacon who has had a credible allegation of sexual abuse made against him to another ministerial assignment since the last audit. The diocese has not transferred any priest or deacon who has had a credible allegation of sexual abuse made against him to another diocese for residence since the last audit.

The bishop, or his designee, has coordinated with major superiors of men with a presence in the diocese concerning addressing the issue of allegations of sexual abuse of minors by clergy. The diocese has not had the opportunity to participate in research with other institutions in the area of sexual abuse. The diocese has developed a systematic ongoing formation program in keeping with the Basic Plan for the Ongoing Formation of Priests.

Compliance with the Provisions of the Charter

At the conclusion of this compliance audit, the diocese was found to be compliant with all articles of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.

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