Media Statements
We are SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests. We are the largest, oldest and most active support group for women and men wounded by religious authority figures (priests, ministers, bishops, deacons, nuns and others).
Local Philadelphia Abuse Survivor Calls for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to “Correct Misinformation”
For immediate release: January 15, 2019
On Sunday, January 13, 2018, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia released a statement regarding the removal of three priests, Fr Raymond W. Smart, Msgr. Joseph Logrip, and Fr. John F. Meyers.
Northeastern Jesuits Release Names of Abusive Clerics, SNAP Responds
The Northeastern Jesuit Province has released the names of “credibly accused” child molesting clerics today.
Michigan State University Should Move Quickly to Remove John Engler
A recent interview with the interim President of Michigan State University was long on aspersions towards victims of sexual abuse and short on answers and apologies. In light of this interview, we believe that the MSU Board of Trustees should move quickly to find a new interim president.
Cardinal Wuerl Asks for “Understanding” for his Role in Covering-up Claims against Theodore McCarrick
For immediate release: January 14, 2019
Rather than apologizing for years of lying and covering-up abuse, Cardinal Donald Wuerl is instead asking for “understanding.” We are happy to oblige with his request.
Priest sentenced to jail for abuse, SNAP calls for legislative action
Diocese of Houma-Thibodeaux Releases Names of Accused Priests
Today, the Diocese of Houma-Thibodeaux in Louisiana released a list of 9 priests who have served in their diocese and been accused of sexual abuse. We are grateful for this development and urge further action.
Despite Denials, Cardinal Donald Wuerl Knew of Abuse Claims Against McCarrick
According to a report from the Washington Post, Catholic officials in DC and Pittsburgh now admit that Cardinal Donald Wuerl was lying when he claimed he was unaware of sexual crimes and misdeeds by his predecessor, Cardinal Theodore McCarrick.
Cardinals Sean O’Malley and Timothy Dolan Spar Over New York Abuse Case
The highest ranking Catholic prelates in New York and Boston are in an apparent rift over clergy sex abuse and cover ups, according to a Catholic news source. We are encouraged by this dispute and hope other bishops will emulate the Boston Cardinal.
New Details on Cover-Up Emerge in Case of Fr. C. John McCloskey
Earlier this week we learned that Catholic officials in New York and Chicago quietly moved an abusive priest and let him keep working around unsuspecting and vulnerable parishioners, even after paying nearly a million dollars to one of his victims. Making matters worse, those same officials had promised the victim that her abuser, Father C. John McCloskey would be kept away from others.
Winter Appeal 2023
To our friends,
2023 has been a long year with many ups and downs for us all. As we close out the year, we at SNAP hope that you are feeling like you are on your way to being healthy, fulfilled, and happy. This past year has brought both successes and challenges. Thanks to the support you have shown in the past, we’ve been able to celebrate the good days and weather the stormy ones. Now, we are once again asking for your support as we work to support survivors new and old as we ‘Move SNAP Forward.’
At SNAP we are proud to have hosted a very well-attended conference in August 2023. This event allowed us to gather friends, survivors, advocates, and allies for a weekend of camaraderie and connection. We were so happy to be able to welcome many first-time attendees to gather in person and are already looking forward to the next conference.
To strengthen our movement for justice, healing, and prevention, SNAP will be expanding our peer support and providing more volunteer opportunities in the coming year. Through this great work, we are ensuring survivor voices are represented as we work for significant change that will benefit children and survivors.
Right now, survivors worldwide are getting the help they need from SNAP, and more and more reach out to us daily, but we need your help to keep those programs going and get our volunteers the training they need to thrive.
Your tax-deductible gift to SNAP can help offset the cost of our important mission. If you are not in a position to contribute, you can still support us by sharing this letter with those who can. As we continue to fight for survivors across the globe, your donation or sharing the great work SNAP does will help us continue our work to protect the vulnerable, heal the wounded, and prevent abuse.
Your donation ensures SNAP will be there for those who need us more than ever!
Warmly,
Michael W. McDonnell, C.P.S.
Interim Executive Director