Pennsylvania bishop removes tribute to predecessors in wake of critical grand-jury report
March 09, 2016
In the wake of a grand-jury report that denounced the handling of past sex-abuse complaints in the Altoona, Pennyslvania diocese, Bishop Mark Bartchak has ordered the removal of banners that had hung in the cathedral, honoring past bishops.
The banners honored Bishops James Hogan and Joseph Adamec. Both were heavily criticized in the grand-jury report. Bishop Hogan, who retired in 1986, died in 2006. Bishop Adamec, who served until 2011, has denied any wrongdoing.
A spokesman said that Bishop Barthchak decided to remove the banners because he "feels this is a time of humility for the diocese and the focus should be on the victims of abuse."
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Further information:
- Clergy abuse report prompts a resignation, banner removal (AP)
- Pennsylvania bishop pledges cooperation with investigators in abuse inquiry (CWN, 3/4)
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