Oakland, Calif., Oct 9, 2018 / 17:01 pm
Bishop Michael Barber of Oakland has announced that the diocese will release the names of all clerics credibly accused of the sexual abuse of a minor.
"I hope and pray the publication of these names will help the innocent survivors and their families in their journey to wholeness and healing," he wrote in a letter dated Oct. 2 and released Oct. 7.
The list will include the names of diocesan and religious priests, as well as extern priests. Anticipated to be released in roughly 45 days, the list is meant to be as accurate as possible, the bishop said, noting it will take some time to verify information on international and religious priests.
Aformer FBI official known for advocacy for justice in clercy sex abuse, Dr. Kathleen McChesney, will
assist in the review of clergy files and the audit of the diocese's process. Once the list is published, McChesney and her associates will fully review the files "to ensure our list is as accurate as possible," Bishop Barber said. He said this second review will not be completed before Jan. 1, 2019.
Bishop Barber expressed hope that this list would help purify the Church and create a transparent environment.