Nebraska diocese will participate in sex-abuse audit process, for 1st time since 2003

September 18, 2015

The Diocese of Lincoln, Nebraska—the only Latin-rite diocese that has declined to participate in a nationwide audit of sex-abuse programs—will join in the audit process this year.

Bishop James Conley announced in his diocesan newspaper column that the diocese would participate in the audit for the first time. He emphasized that the diocese was already in compliance with all civil laws regarding child abuse and protection, and had accepted most recommendations of the US bishops’ conference.

Bishop Fabian Bruskewitz, who preceded Bishop Conley in Lincoln, had participated in the audit in 2003, but refused to join in subsequent audits. Bishop Conley, who assumed leadership of the diocese in 2012, affirmed that choice as a “prudent decision.” He exlained: “Legitimate questions were raised about [the audit’s] purpose and methodology.”

However, the audit process has improved, Bishop Conley said. “It now offers some clear benefit to dioceses that undergo it, with minimal interference in the ministry of the Church.” 

 

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Further information:

• On the protection of children and young people (Southern Nebraska Register)
• Lincoln diocese to take part in USCCB clergy sex abuse audit (CNS)