Following a trend throughout the country, New Jersey’s five Catholic dioceses released on Feb. 13 the names of its priests credibly accused of sexual abuse.
National News
The Archdiocese of New York Responds to Cardinal Spellman Groping Allegation
In response to accusations to allegations that Cardinal Francis Spellman groped a West Point cadet during his time as archbishop of New York, the archdiocese of New York has said it is taking the claim seriously and invites the victim to formally contact the archdiocese.
Women Religious Organization Issues Statement on Abuse of Sisters
Days after the pope acknowledged abuse of nuns and sisters by priests and bishops, the largest U.S. organization of women religious thanked the pontiff for shedding “light on a reality that has been largely hidden from the public,” but the group also called for measures to address the issue.
A Simple Defrocking Won’t Mean the McCarrick Case Is Over
Various news agencies have reported that the Vatican will shortly announce a ruling in the case of former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, accused of sexual abuse of a 16-year-old boy more than 50 years ago as well as various incidents with adult priests and seminarians.
Bishops Blast Alabama for Denying Inmate His Imam at Execution
In the wake of the Supreme Court and the state of Alabama denying a Muslim inmate’s request to have an imam present at his execution, Catholic leaders have decried the move as “disturbing” and an affront to religious liberty.
Supreme Court Blocks Louisiana Law That Would Restrict Abortion Providers
In the court’s 5-4 vote, Chief Justice John Roberts sided with four justices in favor of blocking a Louisiana law requiring abortion providers to have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals Feb. 7
Even With His Team’s Loss, Rams Exec Counts Health, Family, Faith as Wins
When Tony Pastoors was 5 days old in 1987, his mother kneeled in a hospital chapel to pray his life would be spared, after he was diagnosed with Hirschsprung’s disease, which attacks the colon. Now 31, Tony is vice president of football and business administration for the Los Angeles Rams football team.
Cardinal DiNardo Speaks on ‘Healing Breach of Trust’ Caused by Sex Abuse Crisis
Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), echoed Pope Francis’ call for a “new ecclesial season,” in response to the clergy sex abuse scandals, saying that one positive fruit of the present crisis could be a deeper embrace of the Second Vatican Council.
State AGs Double Down on Objections to Church’s Handling of Sex Abuse
Two state attorneys general that have issued reports on the Catholic Church’s handling of clerical sexual abuse cases doubled-down on Monday, defending their efforts and saying the Church cannot be responsible for policing itself.
‘We’re Restoring Human Dignity,’ Says Border Nun
Although her work along the Texas-Mexico border has brought her fame and celebrity, Sister Norma Pimentel, a member of the Missionaries of Jesus, who is executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, shrugged that off as best she could Feb. 2 in Washington, D.C.