Diocese of Fresno Implements Plan to Fairly Compensate Victims
May 28, 2024
Catholic School Families of the Diocese of Fresno,
Today, Bishop Joseph Brennan announced the Diocese of Fresno’s plan to address the sin of clergy sexual abuse and that the plan includes filing a petition for Chapter 11 bankruptcy through the United States Bankruptcy Court in August of this year.
This news comes on the heels of the enactment of a California State law, which opened a three-year window for individuals to bring forward otherwise barred or expired claims for sexual abuse suffered as a child. Since the closing of the filing window on December 31, 2022, the Diocese has been informed of 154 cases filed. The reopening of the window has made every Diocese in California susceptible to more claims.
Bishop Brennan has considered all possible options with his cabinet, staff and professionals retained by the Diocese and is confident that filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy is the best option to help the Diocese meet the following goals:
To make sure the Diocese is handling claims of abuse with equitable compassion and resolving those claims as fairly as possible.
As Superintendent, I would like to assure you of the following:
The Diocese requesting a court-supervised reorganization, will not affect the operational functions of our Catholic schools. Your child’s education and your community will remain uninterrupted. The only entity filing for bankruptcy protection is the corporate sole, known legally as The Roman Catholic Bishop of Fresno. Our Catholic schools operate under a separate legal and ecclesial entity known as The Diocese of Fresno Education Corporation, and will not be filing for bankruptcy protection.
I imagine many of you will join Bishop Brennan, myself, and the rest of the faithful in our sadness and disappointment upon hearing of the immense suffering endured by victims. It is a chilling reminder of our church’s past. We want to reassure you that your children’s safety is of the upmost priority and pledge to continue our efforts in creating a safe environment for all.
Bishop Brennan has acknowledged the need to atone for the sin of clergy sexual abuse in an equitable and compassionate manner. He believes that the faithful share that same acknowledgment. Having said that, the reality of Diocesan finances being impacted will surely raise some questions from our Catholic School Families. Our Office of Communications has established a list of frequently asked questions for your reference. There is still much we do not know but we commit to provide you with more information as we move forward.
Bishop Brennan extends his heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the victims of abuse. He asks that the faithful not be dismayed by the news of the Diocese’s serious financial situation and instead, turn your hearts towards the victims of abuse.
Sincerely,
Joan Bouchard
Superintendent of Catholic Schools
Diocese of Fresno
Find More Information at: dioceseoffresno.org/addressing-victim-suffering