May 22, 2003 - Statement of Bishop Richard Lennon, Apostolic Administrator, Archdiocese of Boston

I have formally requested, through Archdiocesan Counsel, a thirty-day extension of the stand-down which was previously negotiated concerning most of the pending cases involving allegations of sexual abuse.

I believe that this additional thirty-day stand-down will assist the Archdiocese as it continues to work with insurance carriers in the effort to effectuate a settlement of these claims.

The Archdiocese of Boston and I personally remain committed to reaching a fair and equitable resolution of these cases. It is my fervent hope that such a resolution will serve to foster the healing so desperately needed by those who have been abused, their families, this local Church and the wider community.