Diocese of Marquette Responds to Michigan Sexual Abuse Investigation

Marquette Diocese
May 9, 2019

https://www.upmatters.com/news/local-news/diocese-of-marquette-responds-to-michigan-sexual-abuse-investigation/1993045093

“We welcome Pope Francis’ moto proprio, ‘Vos estis lux mundi,’ or ‘You are the light of the world’ released today,” said Bishop John Doerfler. “The Holy Father’s moto proprio will guide our future efforts in the protection of children, young people and those who are vulnerable, continuing the work of the ‘Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People” that began in 2002.’”

“Pope Francis displays a pastoral heart toward those who have suffered abuse. He also shows determination to hold accountable anyone accused of the evil of sexual abuse, no matter what position in the Church that person may hold,” said Bishop Doerfler.

Since 2002, the diocese follows procedures set forth in the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. Audited annually, the diocese was found to be in compliance with the Charter in 2017, the most recent year completed.

The diocese reports allegations of criminal sexual conduct to appropriate civil authorities. It is diocesan practice to defer to civil authorities before pursuing an allegation.

The Diocese of Marquette remains committed to fully cooperate with the Michigan Attorney General’s ongoing investigation into sexual abuse in the Church. Requests for information by the Attorney General have been fully complied with.

The Diocese of Marquette encourages individuals to report clergy, employee or volunteer sexual abuse of minors – no matter when the abuse occurred – to local law enforcement agencies and the Michigan Attorney General’s Office. The Michigan Attorney General’s Office may be reached at its toll-free reporting hotline at (844) 324-3374 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or by email at aginvestigations@michigan.gov.

We also wish to reach out to bring healing to those who have been harmed. Please contact one of the Victim Assistance Coordinators: Stephen Lynott at (844) 495-4330 or Diane Tryan at (844) 694-4362. Or by writing to Victims Assistance Coordinator, c/o Catholic Social Services of the UP, 1100 Ludington St. Suite 401, Escanaba MI 49829. Please mark the letter “Personal and Confidential” and indicate in your letter how you wish to be contacted (by phone or by letter).