ALBANY (NY)
Albany Times-Union

October 19, 2019

Recently, we shared with Paul Grondahl our story of child sexual violation and trauma by Francis P. Melfe, a pastor employed by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany. We made the difficult decision to use our real names, and share intimate details of our abuse, because we wanted to openly acknowledge the trauma and pain that keeps so many silent — and had kept us silent.

Our family’s mission from the start has been truth and accountability. By breaking our silence, we hope to change the future for generations ahead. We have confidence in the spirit of justice established by the state’s Child Victims Act and the early messages of support from the church recognizing their failures in protecting children.

We are humbled, strengthened, and grateful for the care, interest and support from our communities. We wish this for all survivors. Survivors…