Statement Regarding Disciplinary Action
Taken Against L.I. Church Panel Member

December 17, 2003

For More Information:
David Clohessy, National Director
SNAP, Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests
314 566 9790 cell, 314 645 5915

David Cerulli, New York Coordinator & National Board Member
SNAP, Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests
917 757 1791 cell

Statement by David Cerulli of Manhattan
New York SNAP Leader

"We are pained to hear yet again that Bishop Murphy's representative treated a parishioner so harshly. Ms. Armet was simply showing solidarity with victims, and expressing her personal opinion. For that, she's apparently been shunned by Murphy, which is shameful.

It's fitting to recall the words of the Suffolk County grand jury last February:

"The response of priests in the Diocesan hierarchy to allegations of criminal sexual abuse was not pastoral. In fact, although there was a written policy that set a pastoral tone, it was a sham. (Church) officials . . .arrogantly outlined in writing mechanisms devised to shield them from discovery."

Sadly, this description of the Rockville Centre diocese under Bishop Murphy still rings true today.

We in SNAP have long urged victims to break their silence and report their experiences to criminal and civil justice officials, therapists, support groups and loved ones. We've always cautioned victims about speaking with church officials. That advice continues to be sound.

Every Rockville Centre Catholic should be upset at the insensitive treatment of this devout volunteer and should share her concern over Bishop Murphy's continued refusal to offer justice and healing to dozens of Catholics whose innocence was stolen and whose childhoods were shattered."