Media Statements

Our hearts ache for the Teeman family and for the dozens of families who are suffering because Kansas City bishops – and Finn – refused to take any real steps to protect kids from Missouri’s worst predator priest.

We commend this brave victim whose courage will now keep a serial predator priest away from kids for a long time. We hope he feels proud and relieved. And we hope every person who saw, suspected or suffered Fr. Wert's crimes will step forward and get help.

Bishop Robert Finn allegedly asked his staff to "implement security measures" after the Kansas City police issued a search warrant.

Some claim that the Vatican is “punishing” disgraced Cardinal Keith O’Brien. That’s baloney. A news account today suggests the Vatican is just caving into O’Brien’s UK colleagues and helping them limit the public relations damage caused by O’Brien’s continued presence in the UK.

Victims write bishop about accused priest
KY cleric is accused of molesting at least 4 kids
But years later, he is still not being supervised
And Catholic officials let him remain in ministry
SNAP to Lexington prelate “Oust him from your diocese”
Group wants church to warn parents about him and “do outreach”

We hope this settlement comforts at least some of the many families who have suffered and are suffering because Bishop Robert Finn refused to call police, protect kids and monitor Fr. Shawn Ratigan.

Today, Advocate Health Care said it is “investigating” a former Chicago archdiocesan priest accused of molesting at least four boys.

Physically moving Cardinal O’Brien is a paltry, belated, grudging step that may bring temporary relief or comfort to his victims and his flock. It’s a half-hearted response to a wrongdoing that warrants a serious response.

We applaud these brave men for helping to shine light on the on-going Catholic abuse and cover-up crisis.

Once again, the criminal who commits child sex crimes will likely be punished and the criminal who conceals child sex crimes gets a break.