August 5, 2005

Statement by David Clohessy of St. Louis (314) 566-9790 cell
National Director of SNAP

We applaud and support these brave survivors for having the strength to come forward, the wisdom to file civil lawsuits, and the persistence to endure despite repeated church legal maneuvers to deny them justice and healing. Because of their courage, dangerous predators have been exposed, unsuspecting parents have been warned and innocent youngsters have been protected.

Settlements like this only happen when church leaders have horrific secrets about covering up sex crimes which they desperately want to keep hidden.

No amount of money can give these wounded men and women back their stolen childhoods, shattered trust and betrayed faith they should never have had to endure.

Church officials still have moral duty to publicly name the abusers and their enablers. Catholics and parents need to know who the perpetrators are and who helped cover up their crimes. The obligation of church leaders - to protect the innocent and to divulge the truth - does not end with this settlement.

We urge these victims to stay in therapy, keep attending support group meetings, and remain active in the struggle to safeguard others who are still at risk.

For more information:
David Clohessy of St. Louis, SNAP National Director (314) 566-9790 cell
Barbara Blaine of Chicago, SNAP Founder and President (312) 399 4747 cell
Mark Serrano of Leasburg VA, SNAP Board Member (703) 727 4940 cell
Mary Grant of Long Beach CA, SNAP Board Member (626) 419 2930
Peter Isely of Milwaukee, SNAP Board Member (414) 429 7259 cell, (414) 963 8617