In 2018, the Michigan Attorney General initiated an investigation into the Catholic Church in Michigan, which included all 7 (arch)dioceses in our state. A report pertaining to the Diocese of Marquette is the first to be released. While we do not know the exact timing, we do know a report on the Diocese of Saginaw is forthcoming. We will continue to fully cooperate with the investigation.
Tragically, the abuse of children is a horrific part of our Church history, one we must continue to atone for and do everything we can to never repeat. Our hearts and prayers are with all victim-survivors and their families who were betrayed by those they trusted most. Any account of sexual abuse by clergy, including what is described in the Diocese of Marquette report, is heart wrenching and difficult to read.
We continue to apologize on behalf of the Church to all victim-survivors and their families, including those here within our diocese, for the pain they endured, often in silence. It never should have happened. We remain committed to doing all we can to prevent future abuse and to make our diocese safe for everyone, especially our children.
We continue to encourage victim-survivors to report abuse to the Michigan Attorney General by calling 844.324.3374 or emailing aginvestigations@michigan.gov.
The Diocese of Saginaw is committed to providing ongoing support to victims. A licensed social worker serves as our victim assistance coordinator and works independently to assist victims in obtaining counseling and other resources to assist with healing and reconciliation. The victim assistance coordinator can be contacted at 989.797.6682 or victim.assistance@dioceseofsaginaw.org.
The Diocese of Marquette will host a news conference to address the report. A live video stream will be available from their
Today, the Diocese of Marquette will host a news conference to address the report. A live video stream will be available from their website.