“I think these have all been pluses as far as making the reality of child sex abuse a priority in the Church,” he said.
The deacon observed that despite the Church having the lowest number of abuse cases as compared to other institutions across the U.S., one incident is still “one too many.”
He also noted the Church's obligation to speak out against other societal ills, in addition to child sex abuse.
“I would be remiss to not acknowledge or identify the realities of elder abuse, domestic violence, spousal abuse and fiduciary abuse,” he said, adding that the Church's consistent stance against all forms of abuse give it the “opportunity to influence” others.
In addition to his background in social work, Deacon Nojadera also holds a master's degree in theology from St. Patrick's seminary in Menlo Park.
He's also been a member of the San Jose Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the YWCA Rape Crisis Center and the County of Santa Clara Interfaith Clergy Project for Elder Abuse Prevention.
He was ordained a deacon in 2008 and has headed the San Jose diocesan child protection office since 2002.
An impressive resume is just one of the aspects that have earned Deacon Nojadera the praise of his colleagues.
“Deacon Nojadera brings to this position valuable experience from many areas,” said Msgr. David Malloy, general secretary of the bishops' conference, who appointed him for the role.
“He is a family man and trained social worker, who is familiar with the church both at the parish and diocesan level and with law enforcement. He understands the need for child protection services in all areas.”
Diane Knight – chair of the National Review Board which oversees the work of the bishops' child protection office – also expressed her enthusiasm over the deacon's new position.
“Bernard Nojadera has the experience to understand the issues we face in the 21st century,” she said. “The National Review Board looks forward to his work in support of its efforts to assist the bishops in ensuring the safety of children and young people in parishes and schools.”
Yet despite his life accomplishments and numerous qualifications for the role, Deacon Nojadera displays a tangible humility.
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“I am just a servant – and I'm open and willing to go and do whatever needs to be done,” he told CNA.
He said that throughout his life journey, “I've had to learn quickly that it's not my plan – it's God's plan.”
Marianne is a journalist with a background in writing and Catholic theology. When not elaborating on the cinematic arts, she enjoys spending time with people, reading thick books and traveling anywhere and everywhere.