How the diocese treats sex abuse cases

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

The matter of sexual misconduct by clergy has become a public scandal and embarrassment. It is a regrettable and painful reality affecting the lives of many of our faithful. The misconduct of a few overshadows the good work and tireless service of the vast majority of our clergy.

It is with a heavy heart that I address the current publicity in our own diocese. Many of you in the Sacramento area may have read the recent articles in The Sacramento Bee regarding specific cases of clergy sexual misconduct in our diocese. Let me assure you, as I explained in my Feb. 23 column in The Herald, we have strict policies regarding the investigation and resolution of complaints of misconduct against priests or other church workers. Our first concern is always for all who are injured, especially children and other adolescents; part of that concern includes the prevention of further harm.

The Diocese settled two complaints against Father Michael Walsh arising out of accusations of sexual misconduct that took place in 1973 and 1985. After receiving the first complaint, the Diocese immediately placed Father Walsh on leave and conducted an investigation. He was not assigned to a school or parish. He remained attached to the Diocese of Sacramento, but was allowed to live in a Catholic religious residence in the Bay Area.

The first settlement, which took place in 1985, regarded the accusation of misconduct which occurred that same year. The second complaint, made in 1992, regarded an accusation of misconduct which occurred in 1973. However, official documents place Father Walsh at the parish in question only after the complainant was 18 years of age. No children or minors were involved in either accusation, and therefore notification of the authorities was not required.

Over the past 17 years, Father Walsh has rebuilt his life. He asked for and received counseling, and developed a new ministry working in religious radio. During that time, no further allegations have been made against him.

Three years ago, Father Walsh came back to Sacramento and was returned to limited duties as a priest. He currently works at the Diocesan Pastoral Center where he produces radio programs and other broadcast material for the faithful.

The Sacramento Bee also published another story involving allegations of clergy misconduct. The Diocese received a complaint in 1999 alleging sexual misconduct on the part of Father Vincent Brady in the 1970s. He denied the charges. Nevertheless, in accordance with diocesan policy, Father Brady was placed on administrative leave and an investigation was conducted. Father Brady underwent a comprehensive evaluation, again in accordance with diocesan policy. As a result I determined that he is not a risk to anyone in his ministry. As a result, he was reinstated.

Father Brady, pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Lincoln, decided to tell his parishioners of the accusations that had been made in 1999 during liturgies on the Palm Sunday weekend.

As I wrote in my column in The Herald Feb. 23, sexual misconduct by a priest or any church worker is totally contrary to what the Catholic Church stands for. Sexual abuse is a terrible problem that has not only affected our church but also our entire society.

The Herald has been and will continue to provide you with information about the issue of clergy misconduct. Inside this issue (page 3) you will find responses to questions about our diocese’s sexual misconduct policies from Father David Deibel, vicar for canonical affairs, as well as other articles on this topic. My hope is that this will help to bring peace and resolution to area Catholics, and to keep the channels of communication open between the diocese and all who live in the 20 counties of Northern California.

I want to again remind you that the diocese wishes to ensure the safety and rights of the people of our community. The diocese’s sexual misconduct policy is posted on the diocesan Web site at www.diocese-sacramento.org. Any allegation of sexual misconduct may be reported to any of the following people:

• Father Thomas Bland at (916) 733-0206.

• Sister Paulina Hurtado at (916) 733-0245.

• John Hale at (916) 733-0241.

As Bishop, I urge anyone who may have a well-founded suspicion of clergy misconduct to come forward with the information as early as possible, especially if children or adolescents might be involved. I’m grateful to people who come forward with a well-founded complaint. It takes courage. Most importantly, it makes it possible for the injured to get pastoral assistance and it gives church leaders the opportunity to deal with an offender in order to prevent further abuse.

One of the most destructive aspects of clergy misconduct both for the victims and the church community is that faith is challenged. Rebuilding that faith after the trust of the people has been violated is one of the most demanding crosses to bear. There is no mistaking that this crime devastates the victim, the victim’s family and the entire community. We must pray for the healing of all involved. We must also all continue to look to God for strength and moral courage.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

WILLIAM K. WEIGAND
Bishop of Sacramento

Copyright © 2001 Diocese of Sacramento - All Rights Reserved

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