Pam Russo As Secretary for Youth Protection and Catholic Human Services, Pam Russo has overall responsibility at the diocesan level for programs and policies designed to prevent abuse and keep children safe. She provided the following overview at the “Healing Our Church” … [Read more...]
Diocese will establish independent compensation and reconciliation program for abuse victims, survivors
Fulfilling the commitment made by Bishop Alfred Schlert and his brother Pennsylvania Bishops in mid-September, the Diocese of Allentown will establish a compensation and reconciliation program to assist victims and survivors of past clergy sexual abuse. The Diocese recognizes … [Read more...]
Independent Diocesan Review Board Provides Outside Perspective
An independent panel of experts known as the Diocesan Review Board assists the Bishop in discharging his responsibilities involving the sexual abuse of minors by clerics. It was formed in 2003. Dr. Eugene Decker is a charter member of the board and has served as board chair … [Read more...]
Statement from Bishop Schlert
Every Bishop inherits the history of his Diocese. It falls to him to shoulder any failings from the past, to apologize, to ask forgiveness, to promote healing, and to do what he can to prevent recurrence. The Grand Jury Report is a sad and humbling account of the Priesthood used … [Read more...]
Bishop Schlert answers questions about the Grand Jury Report
The Grand Jury Report contains painful details of past clergy sexual abuse, yet you advocated for its release even as some others tried to block it. Why? It is only by confronting and understanding our past that we can continue to heal and move forward toward a goal we all … [Read more...]