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The
Survivors Network of
those Abused by Priests
SNAP Press
Statement
Statement
In Response to Davenport Diocese
Threat To File Bankruptcy
September 20, 2006
Statement By: Steve Theisen,
Iowa SNAP Director
Bishops all across the country have managed to do what it takes to help
victims heal. We believe Bishop Franklin could too, if he was committed
to doing so. After Cardinal Law stepped down in Boston his replacement,
Cardinal O'Malley fired church defense attorneys and committed to do whatever
it takes to help the victims.
Where there's a will, there's a way. Bishop Franklin should
roll up his sleeves and start working towards finding ways to help victims
and stop his legal tactics fighting victims. He has a Christian duty to
do everything he possibly can to try and heal the hurting men and women
who as children were raped, sodomized and sexually assaulted by priests.
Steve Theisen is a survivor of abuse by a catholic nun and
is the Iowa SNAP Director. SNAP, Survivors Network of those Abused by
Priests, is the nations oldest and largest support group for victims of
clergy abuse.
Davenport Diocese Says It's Considering Filing For Bankruptcy
By Courtney Brennan
Davenport, Iowa - The Davenport Catholic Diocese could be looking at bankruptcy
after it lost a sexual abuse lawsuit yesterday in Scott County court.
The diocese was ordered to pay Michl Udhe 1.5 million dollars after the
jury ruled in his favor. The Davenport Diocese released a statement today
that said it doesn't have an insurance policy to cover the settlement.
Now, Davenport parishioners are worried their church will fold because
of the lawsuit. Bankruptcy attorney Barry Barash says the diocese will
probably file for chapter 11 bankruptcy...that would give the diocese
time to reorganize, figure out what assets can be sold and how to make
enough money to pay Udhe.
Barash says putting a monetary value on a diocese is difficult, but it
can be done. Churches have assets just like other businesses - in loose
cash, vehicles, furniture, fixtures and buildings. Saint Anthony's in
downtown Davenport is a perfect example of the diocese's prime real estate.
But to the parishioners, it's not a building that should be put up for
sale.
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Survivors Network
of those Abused by Priests
www.snapnetwork.org
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