Media Statements

We belong to a confidential, independent support group called SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAPnetwork.org). Our mission is to protect the vulnerable and heal the wounded.

We are saddened and disturbed to learn that despite a second allegation of abuse by Fr. Michael Kelly, Stockton Diocese officials still refuse to remove him from active ministry with children and families. Despite years of telling Catholics about child safety "reforms," Stockton Bishop Blaire still cannot do the one easy and simple thing to keep kids safe.

According to federal investigators, Houston Catholic Charities officials ‘had full knowledge of the extent of the assaults (on a child),’ ‘submitted erroneous … reports,’ and gave the child victim medical care “only the after they were ordered to do so by federal officials.’

It’s one of the oldest public relations tricks in the book – pretend that intentional, self serving secrecy is really just a “mistake” or “goof” or “failing,” when in fact it’s a deliberate move to protect wrongdoers.

This wasn’t an affair. This was a powerful priest sexually exploiting a vulnerable woman, and callous, reckless church officials deceiving the public and their parishioners by their continuing secrecy.

Major Human Rights Report Affirms That Sexual Abuse by the Clergy is “Torture, Inhuman and Degrading Treatment”

CCR Welcomes Amnesty International Report in Wake of Sept. 13 International Criminal Court Filing Against the Pope and Top Vatican Officials, Seeking Accountability for Clergy Sexual Abuse

SNAP Orthodox is appalled that suspended Archbishop Seraphim Storheim, a credibly accused child molester, is visiting a Canadian church this weekend.

It’s bizarre and callous that some bishops are asking a fellow bishop to step down because he disclosed that he was abused by three priests.

We look forward to a major shake-up in the Dallas Episcopal hierarchy over this stunningly heinous child sex abuse and cover up case.

Irish citizens and Catholics should be extremely skeptical of claims of alleged ‘poverty’ by church officials. Prelates who are dishonest about children’s safety will certainly be dishonest about their vast wealth.