ST. LOUIS (MO)
Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests
February 25, 2019
Today, the Diocese of Sioux City, IA published a list of priests who had been “credibly” accused of abuse.
It is always helpful for survivors when these lists are posted, especially for those who may be suffering in silence. Seeing that they are not alone helps victims heal, and could also compel others who were abused – whether by the same person or in the same place – to come forward. And often, dioceses will state that they are releasing these lists to assist with survivors in their healing and to help warn the public about these clerics. We are always supportive of those goals and are grateful for this first step towards transparency taken by the Diocese of Sioux City today.
What ends up being problematic is when lists are released that are incomplete or carefully curated and leave off the names of “extern” priests, nuns, deacons, bishops, or other church staff. Sometimes, names are left off because they do not meet the diocese’s ever-changing and nebulous definition of “credible.” And this point about credibility is the focus given the release from Sioux City today.
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