July 7, 2022 at 11:36 p.m.

Diocese of Albany Unveils Draft Victims/Survivors Compensation Program

Diocese of Albany Unveils Draft Victims/Survivors Compensation Program
Diocese of Albany Unveils Draft Victims/Survivors Compensation Program

This is a draft plan. It is not final, but we want to share progress to this point to let the Victims/Survivors who have pursued a claim through the CVA, know that this is another option to consider that may better protect their interests and get more assistance to them. Of course, any settlement cannot be the final word on the healing process, and the Albany Diocese is committed to seeing Victims/Survivors through their healing journey. The VSCP will feature commitments by the diocese to provide programs for ongoing healing and pastoral care of survivors and their families, as well as enhancement of its current prevention programs, including training and background screening of all clergy, lay employees, and volunteers who work with children, as well as age-appropriate awareness training for children. The diocese will continue to offer all those who may have been abused by clergy, the opportunity for counseling and emergency assistance through its office of Assistance Coordinator.

“Sex abuse is a blight on our society that affects and harms so many innocent people,” said Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger. “As a Church and as a community of faith, we recognize that the Victims/Survivors are our sons and daughters, our brothers and sisters, and all of us, without exception, must find ways to assist them in their recovery.”

Any Victim/Survivor who receives an award is free to go public with information about it if he or she so desires. The Albany Diocese will never require but will always honor confidentiality.


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