The Diocese of Ogdensburg in New York is the latest area releasing a list of priests who are no longer in the ministry because of “reasonable grounds” of sexual abuse. The list includes those who were removed from the ministry based on allegations, as well as the clergy who have died or left the ministry. The public had not known of eight clergies as abusers. However, most of the priests on these lists have passed away.
Clergy Sexual Abuse
Abuses in the Catholic Church have been well-documented in the media. However, systemic abuse has occurred for centuries. Old church documents repeatedly warned of priests or brothers abusing parishioners. Instead of being active in protecting the victims, the Church has a reputation of concealing the abuse and reassigning the clergy members. This isn’t just in Catholic dioceses but also in religious orders (i.e., Christian Brothers, Paulist Fathers, Franciscans, etc).
Usually, the abuse lasts for years. It can take a long time for a child victim of sexual abuse to be able to come forward and report the abuse. Because monsignors, bishops, brothers, nuns, along with priests hold positions coupling trust and faith, victims don’t always identify the abuse. Some abusers claim the inappropriate sexual contact is part of a ritual. Then the perpetrators threaten the victims into silence.
Diocese Clergy Sexual Abuse List
Even though the dioceses has released a list of clergy accused of sexual abuse, many feel they are leaving priests off the lists. Plus, the majority of priests on the list are dead. Then, most of the others have already been named in civil or criminal suits. One victim of sexual abuse said the names on the list are expected, but he wished there was more information. Victims want to see biographies of the abusers and other assignment locations.
Last year, the Diocese of Ogdensburg in New York paid nearly $5.5 million to 37 victims. However, they insisted there haven’t been any new cases in the last 20 years.
Get Legal Help
Survivors of sexual abuse can file civil suits against perpetrators and other responsible parties, regardless of the outcome or existence of a criminal prosecution. Civil lawsuits can help a survivor seek monetary damages. This compensation can never change the abuse suffered but can help rebuild a life.
When a religious organization takes advantage of you, this is wrong. We will hold these institutions liable.
Plus, a civil suit can deter future abuse. This is why it is important if you or a loved one was the victim of sexual abuse to contact The Michael Brady Lynch Firm. We will provide a free consultation and instruct of any avenues available to you for civil litigation.