Ireland: Bishop Moriarty apologizes to victims in resignation statement
December 24, 2009
The Irish bishop who offered his resignation to Pope Benedict XVI on December 23 has apologized to abuse victims.
“Over the last few weeks, I have been reflecting on what should be my response to the overall conclusion of the Murphy report-- particularly because I was part of the governance of the Archdiocese [of Dublin] prior to when correct child protection policies and procedures were implemented,” said Bishop James Moriarty.
“It does not serve the truth to overstate my responsibility and authority within the Archdiocese,” he continued. “Nor does it serve the truth to overlook the fact that the system of management and communications was seriously flawed. However, with the benefit of hindsight, I accept that, from the time I became an Auxiliary Bishop, I should have challenged the prevailing culture.”
“I know that any action now on my part does not take away the suffering that people have endured. I again apologise to all the survivors and their families. I have today offered my resignation as Bishop of Kildare & Leighlin to the Holy Father. I hope it honours the truth that the survivors have so bravely uncovered and opens the way to a better future for all concerned.”
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Further information:
- Statement by Bishop Jim Moriarty (Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin)
- 2nd Irish bishop resigns in sex-abuse scandal (CWN, 12/23)
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Posted by: jeremiahjj -
Dec. 24, 2009 6:14 PM ET USA
It would have helped had the Bishop come forward before the scandal became public. Mea culpas after wrongdoing is discovered has an insincere ring to it. But let the Holy Father accept the resignation and leave the rest to God. Holy Mother Church needs to move on.
