Archdiocese of NO to publish personnel files of clergy accused of abuse as part of bankruptcy reorganization

On November 9, 2024By Pranco

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) -As the Archdiocese of New Orleans goes through a major bankruptcy process, it is introducing new policies and procedures aimed at preventing child sexual abuse. In a 35-page document filed Thursday (Nov. 7), the archdiocese said it aims to become the “gold standard” for child protection measures. One survivor, however, is skeptical.

“From the position I’ve been in for over 47 years, you have to take that with a grain of salt,” said John Anderson.

Anderson is one of more than 500 people who have filed abuse claims against the Archdiocese of New Orleans. Since 2020, the archdiocese has been embroiled in bankruptcy proceedings as both sides attempt to reach a settlement that includes financial restitution for alleged victims. Although the parties are far apart financially, they have agreed to a legal document outlining measures the archdiocese will implement to prevent future child sexual abuse. Anderson said the agreement is long overdue, as are what he calls fair payments to victims.

“The survivors, the committees and the advocates all fought so hard to get one thing done, and that really comes down to transparency and accountability for what happened,” Anderson said.

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As part of the non-monetary plan, the archdiocese has committed to creating a public database of more than 300 credible claims against clergy and publishing personnel files of accused individuals. Other reforms include a new rule banning priests from being alone with a child in the confessional during the sacrament of penance.

‘That’s almost common sense for their own protection. This should have been something they practiced many years ago,” said Letitia Peyton.

Peyton, executive director of Tentmakers of Louisiana, an organization that supports survivors of clergy sexual abuse, said many victims have suffered in silence. She believes the archdiocese’s plan to share survivors’ stories could provide a path to healing.

“It’s amazing when someone can actually tell their story and listen to it. It’s like the chains are falling off,” Peyton said.

“That is why transparency is crucial. Everything we do in the future is for our children. This is what really matters when push comes to shove,” Anderson said.

In a prepared statement, Archbishop Gregory Aymond expressed the archdiocese’s commitment to the protection of children:

“The Church is committed to protecting children and preventing the evil of child sexual abuse in our Catholic parishes, schools and ministries. I welcome this progress in our reorganization, but more importantly, I welcome the new resources to strengthen our existing, effective programs for the safety and security of our children across our ministries. It is my prayer that our work with the committee will remain collaborative, with survivors at the forefront of decisions.”

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