IL--Statements on Illinois adult abuse case

By Laura Merleau-Mcgrady
Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests
October 11, 2016

http://www.snapnetwork.org/il_statements_on_illinois_adult_abuse_case

Statement by Laura Merleau-McGrady, suing Fr. Osang Idagbo

Once I began learning more of the stories of others who had similar experiences to mine, I realized that my spiritual and emotional suffering were not unique and I needed to do something to help others avoid falling into the same trap into which I fell. So I am filing this lawsuit to add to the growing number of voices trying to bring to light the corrupt system in the Catholic Church that encourages, allows, and does nothing to stop priests from becoming predators.

I implore anyone with information about Father Idagbo’s misconduct with women to come forward and report what they know. To anyone else that Father Idagbo may have hurt, I want you to know that you will not be alone if you come forward. This lawsuit is not about money for me. It is about justice for what has been done to me and so many other women by predator priests.

Statement by David Clohessy of SNAP

Many overlook or minimize the horrific manipulation and abuse of vulnerable parishioners by powerful predatory priests. But it’s widespread and devastating. For the safety of the flock bishops must suspend clerics who violate adults or children.

Catholics are taught that priests are holy, celibate men who represent God on earth and can guarantee them eternal life by forgiving their sins. Given that kind of power, it’s no wonder many clerics abuse it for their selfish sexual gratification.