The Diocese of Rochester, New York, has reached a $246 million settlement with victims of sexual abuse. The settlement resolves claims from survivors who were abused by clergy members. The agreement covers abuse cases that occurred over several decades. The settlement amount is intended to provide financial compensation and support to the victims.
4 months ago
Hundreds of clergy abuse victims have agreed to a $246 million settlement from the Diocese of Rochester, New York, bringing the diocese's years-long bankruptcy proceedings closer to a conclusion 2 3. The settlement plan received a near-unanimous vote in favor from the victims, with only a few abstentions and no votes against it 2 3. U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Paul Warren has indicated his intent to approve the agreement in September 2 3.
The $246 million settlement fund comprises contributions from various sources, including the diocese, its parishes, and insurance providers 2 3. In 2022, the diocese initially committed $55 million to a settlement fund 2 3. More recently, Continental Insurance Co. agreed to contribute an additional $120 million, bringing the total to the current $246 million figure 2 3.
This settlement is among the larger payouts for clergy abuse or bankruptcy proceedings in U.S. dioceses 2 3. For comparison, the Diocese of Rockville Centre, New York, holds the record for the largest diocesan payout at $323 million, while the Archdiocese of Los Angeles set the overall U.S. record with an $880 million settlement 2 3. Dioceses typically fund such settlements through parish contributions, insurance payouts, and the sale of diocesan property 2 3.
The Diocese of Rochester expressed hope that the bankruptcy plan's approval will help ease the hurt and suffering of survivors, acknowledging their six-year ordeal since the diocese first filed for bankruptcy in 2019 2 3. They also offered prayers for the survivors to find peace and for their faith, which was betrayed, to be restored 2 3. Elsewhere, legal challenges have arisen, such as in the Diocese of Buffalo, New York, where parishioners temporarily halted settlement payments required of parishes amidst a dispute over parish mergers 2 3.
What is the Church's pastoral response to abuse?
The Church's pastoral response to abuse prioritizes the well-being of victims, aiming to provide spiritual and psychological assistance, foster healing, and ensure a safe environment for minors and vulnerable adults within Church institutions . This response is rooted in the compassion of Jesus Christ and involves a multi-faceted approach that includes listening to victims, implementing protective measures, and holding perpetrators accountable .
The Church emphasizes the duty to express the compassion of Jesus towards those who have suffered abuse and their families . This involves a commitment to listening to victims and their loved ones, offering spiritual and psychological assistance, and asking for their forgiveness . Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis have both highlighted the importance of meeting with and listening to victims, acknowledging their suffering, and expressing profound sorrow for the wrongs they have endured . The neglect of listening to victims can greatly aggravate their suffering, making a personal commitment to caring for them essential .
A key aspect of the Church's pastoral response is the protection of minors and vulnerable adults . This includes:
The Church is committed to prosecuting those who commit crimes of abuse, especially in ecclesial contexts . This involves:
The Church encourages close and complete cooperation with bodies like the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors . This commission assists Episcopal Conferences through the exchange of best practices, education, training, and the development of adequate responses to sexual abuse . The goal is to acknowledge and repair past injustices and remain faithful in the work of protecting those closest to the heart of Jesus .