SNAP
Statement



BACK TO:

2006
Statement
List



 


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.


 

 

 


Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests
www.snapnetwork.org