February 11, 2003 - Statement of Donna M. Morrissey, Spokeswoman, Archdiocese of Boston

Recent media reports have recounted the personal details of allegations of sexual abuse, obtained through court order, and consequently have caused some people to fear coming forward due to a lack of an assurance of confidentiality.

Many people have come in good faith to the Archdiocese as well as to other agencies looking for assistance, healing, guidance and support. It is essential that victims/survivors feel safe to report allegations of abuse so that no child is at risk and so that those who have suffered may receive assistance and support in the healing process. It takes great courage for victims/survivors to come forward and detail their victimization. Victims/survivors come to the Archdiocese expecting confidentiality. When information revealed to the Archdiocese is produced under court order and subsequently released to the public those who have already suffered are victimized again. The media and any person who gains access to files that were produced by court order have a moral and ethical obligation to assure that the identities of victims/survivors are protected including identifying details surrounding circumstances of the abuse. By simply redacting names the protection of confidentiality of persons involved is not necessarily guaranteed.

The Archdiocese of Boston is committed to investigating and reporting to proper authorities each and every allegation of sexual misconduct made against any member of the clergy. We are very concerned about the additional suffering that results when personal information of victims/survivors is released and made public under court order. Any information or details describing personal revelations or allegations of sexual abuse are always treated by representatives of the Archdiocese as confidential and have not been released without being required to do so by court order.

The Archdiocese of Boston is committed to the dedicated and essential work of the Office of Healing and Assistance Ministry as a pastoral outreach to those who may need support. The Archdiocese is grateful to Barbara Thorp and to those who work with her in the Office of Healing and Assistance Ministry for the care, concern, and compassion they have provided to those who have sought assistance from them. They stand ready to provide assistance to others that come forward in the future.

The Archdiocese of Boston is committed to cooperating in all aspects of these cases and to working to ensure that we reach fair, equitable and expeditious settlements of these cases.