Winona, Minn., Nov 20, 2018 / 15:53 pm
The Diocese of Winona-Rochester will file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, it was announced Sunday. Bishop John Quinn wrote a letter explaining the decision, which was distributed in bulletins throughout the diocese.
In a recorded video statement posted on the diocesan website, Quinn said he was sorry, and that on behalf of his brother priests, he "offer(s) an apology to these survivors and acknowledge their pain and suffering," and pledged to "remain vigilant" to prevent abuse in the future. He also said it was important to create an "environment of healing" for both abuse survivors and their families.
Quinn explained that due to the 121 claims of child sexual abuse by priests within the diocese, and after praying for guidance as to how to best heal the pain of these survivors, the diocese would file for bankruptcy. A total of 17 priests in the diocese have been accused of sexual abuse.
This move is the "most just and equitable way to hold ourselves accountable, to bring healing and justice to the survivors, and to find a path forward for our diocesan community," said Quinn.