FRESNO (CA)
Diocese of Fresno [Fresno CA]
July 1, 2025
By Bishop Joseph V. Brennan
[See also the PDF of the Brennan letter in English and Spanish.]
An Open Letter to the Faithful
Brothers and Sisters,
In May of last year, I announced the Diocese of Fresno’s plan to Atone for the Suffering Inflicted by Clergy Abuse, and how that plan includes reorganizing our Diocese by filing for bankruptcy. Today I announce that the Diocese has filed a Voluntary Petition for chapter 11 bankruptcy with the United States Bankruptcy Court here in Fresno County. I am clear-sighted that this path is the only path that will allow us to handle claims of sexual abuse with fair, equitable compassion while simultaneously ensuring the continuation of ministry within our Diocese.
Our Church must address the suffering that victims of clergy sexual abuse endure. We know the sin; it will always be before us. Now that we have entered a journey of conversion through contrition and acknowledgment of the victims’ suffering, we must enter a path of reconciliation which includes resolving the victims’ claims.
During the reorganization process, the bankruptcy court will oversee the allocation of available assets to satisfy the claims against the Diocese. Victim survivors of clergy sexual abuse will be represented in the court supervised proceeding and a fund will be established by the court for distribution to victim survivors.
By implementing Safe Environment protocols including background checks, fingerprinting, trainings and so much more, we continue our commitment to creating the safest possible environment for our youth and vulnerable. I will continue to confront allegations of abuse or any wrongdoing with diligence and care.
I have had my Communication staff prepare information on our filing and how we protect our youth. You can access that information by clicking here.
Brothers and Sisters, please pray for the victims of abuse as we journey through this reconciliation process.
In Christ,
The Most Reverend Joseph V. Brennan
Bishop of the Diocese of Fresno