Minn. Catholic Community Responds to Resignations

By Karla Hult
KARE
October 21, 2013

http://www.kare11.com/news/article/1043321/396/Minn-Catholic-community-responds-to-resignations


[with video]

MINNEAPOLIS -- Minnesota's Catholic community continued to absorb controversy within the church one day after learning former Archbishop Harry Flynn resigned from the Board of Trustees at the University of St. Thomas.

"It's too bad. It's too bad that it happened," said Roger Guzek, who attends the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis.

"I'm disappointed that in 2013 the church still hasn't realized that abuse towards minors and covering it up is unacceptable," said Adam Tillotson, of St. Louis Park.

Flynn's resignation follows a difficult month for the Archdiocese amid a growing clergy sexual abuse scandal. Earlier this month, former Vicar General Kevin McDonough also resigned from the University of St. Thomas Trustees Board. And Rev. Peter Laird stepped down as Vicar General under Archbishop John Nienstedt.

Meantime, the Archdiocese continues to respond to accusations of a possible cover-up or mishandling of priest misconduct allegations, including the case involving Rev. Curtis Wehmeyer. Earlier this year, Wehmeyer was sentenced to five years in prison for sexually abusing two children and possessing child pornography.

A prominent St. Paul attorney who handles clergy abuse cases said more needs to be done to ensure the safety of children.

Jeff Anderson predicted more leaders in the Archdiocese will "face criminal exposure and should be prosecuted."

"They have to tell the truth, and they have to come clean. And until they do take that kind of action, the problem remains. And they are it. And the kids are in really serious peril," Anderson said.