[See also Cardinal McElroy’s letter.]

The original announcement came Thursday night in a meeting with pastors and parish officials during which Cardinal McElroy answered questions and distributed a letter that will be provided to parishioners at masses over the weekend

The Roman Catholic Diocese of San Diego announced Friday that it may have to file for bankruptcy after roughly 400 claims were filed by alleged victims who said they were sexual abused by priests and other church members.

The earliest claim dates to 1945, with most of the events allegedly taking place 50-75 years ago, Kevin Eckery, communications director for the diocese, said at a news conference on Friday. 

Bankruptcy may be necessary in order “to provide a pathway for ensuring that the assets of the diocese will be used equitably to compensate all victims of sexual abuse,” Cardinal Robert McElroy wrote in a letter expected to be shared…