April 15, 2008

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information, Contact:
Bud Bunce (503) 233-8373
bbunce@archdpdx.org

Archbishop Vlazny releases more priest files

        Archbishop John G. Vlazny today authorized the release of approximately 2000 additional pages of documents concerning priests accused of child sexual abuse. The released files include confidential personnel records. The Archbishop noted that he authorized the release of the files as “part of the healing process and in the interest of transparency.”

        In a statement issued today, Archbishop Vlazny stated “History has shown that, unfortunately, some priests of the Archdiocese of Portland engaged in shameful conduct with minors. Almost all of the incidents of which we are aware occurred during the period 1940 through the mid 1980’s. Much of this misconduct did not come to light until recently with the lawsuits and claims filed for the last few years.”

        The Archbishop explained that there were some files that would not be released, “The Bankruptcy process brought out numerous claims. In many instances, only one claim was ever received against a priest. Under the process we followed for the resolution of the bankruptcy, many claimants received payment even though their claim could not be verified or substantiated because of the age of the claim, unavailability of witnesses, lack of investigation or other factors.” The Archbishop continued, “This is especially true when the claim received was the first notice to the Archdiocese of an accusation of misconduct and the accused was dead.”

        Archbishop Vlazny pointed out that the names of priests who had multiple claims made against them were previously listed in a special edition of the Catholic Sentinel, and in numerous other news media.

        The Archbishop’s statement noted that the Archdiocese had hoped to release these documents “long before now,” but for various reasons the Archdiocese has been unable to reach agreement with plaintiffs’ lawyers. The Archbishop acknowledged the criticism that has come his way in the past, yet he asserted that the Archdiocese would not let this criticism prevent the release of documents. “The plaintiffs’ lawyers may criticize us, as they have often done, and make accusations about the Archdiocese of Portland, the Roman Catholic Church, its clergy, and its parishioners. We will not falter in the face of these accusations. We have made what we believe is a fair decision on document disclosure based on sound guiding principles and will continue on this course.” Archbishop Vlazny went on to state, “We hope that the continuing release of documents in the spirit of healing and reconciliation will bring peace to the lives of those who have been harmed.”

        The Archbishop pointed out that the Archdiocese of Portland “has comprehensive child protection policies and programs.” He mentioned the Office of Child Protection which “coordinates safe environment education for employees, volunteers, parents and children.” He continued, “The commitment of the church in Western Oregon to the safety of children is and will remain a high priority.”

The documents are available at the web site: www.archdiocesedocuments.org/.

Archbishop’s complete statement is attached. Click Here