(credit: CBS)
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – The archbishop in St. Paul and Minneapolis says he hopes the disclosure of names of priests who have been accused of sexually abusing minors will help restore trust in the church and foster healing for those who have been harmed.
Archbishop John Nienstedt made the comments Thursday in a column in the archdiocesan newspaper, The Catholic Spirit.
He says the 34 names disclosed in the newspaper are not intended to be a final list. He says a review of clergy files is under way, and the list could be updated. Going forward, new abuse claims that can be substantiated will be disclosed on the archdiocese website.
He also apologized to victims, and says he is committed to combating sexual abuse and ensuring it is never repeated in the church.
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