BALTIMORE (MD)
WBALTV 11 [Baltimore, MD]
March 22, 2024
By Kate Amara
Survivors are calling the latest court order a “win” in the bankruptcy case of the Baltimore Archdiocese.
A judge issued a new order this week giving survivors of clergy sexual abuse the chance to address the court directly.
“It feels like a big win to me,” Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests spokesperson Teresa Lancaster said.
Survivors had requested the opportunity to testify, saying it would give a meaningful voice to victims, humanize the process and deepen understanding of the case.
“Giving your voice in person, and also the people testifying are talking for hundreds of survivors, and that is more valuable than anything,” Lancaster said.
SNAP director David Lorenz said the testimony is akin to a sentencing hearing in a criminal case.
“I believe giving the impact statement will be healing for survivors, similar to victims giving their impact statements in criminal court,” he said.
Catholic Archbishop William Lori said he supports the request and plans to be there in person when it happens, according to court filings in the case.
The archdiocese released a statement Friday, saying in part, “Aware that the ability to share one’s story can be a profound element of the healing for victim survivors of abuse, the archdiocese not only endorses the request, but Archbishop Lori will personally attend the sessions so that he may hear directly from the victim-survivors.”
The judge set aside a pair of upcoming hearings just for that purpose on April 8 and May 20. The hearings will be two hours each.
SNAP members called it a chance to address Lori on neutral territory.
“I would testify in front of the Pope. I extend an invitation to him, because I want them to know what their church did,” Lancaster said. “To see survivors actually speak and talk about what they went through. Definitely a win.”
Survivors hope the hearings will boost awareness of the case and the fast-approaching deadline. Survivors have until May 31 to file claims in the bankruptcy case.