NEW ORLEANS (LA)
WWL-TV [New Orleans LA]
November 21, 2025
By Lily Cummings
Checchio, who has been in New Orleans for less than a week, took the witness stand in federal court on Friday.
The New Orleans Archdiocese’s complex bankruptcy case continued Friday at federal court, marking a significant moment as incoming Archbishop James Checchio took the stand for the first time.
From Pulpit to Witness Stand
Incoming Archbishop James Checchio has been in New Orleans less than a week. On Tuesday, he was celebrated during a welcome mass at St. Louis Cathedral. Then on Friday, he took the witness stand at federal court.
Checchio walked into federal court Friday, flanked by Archbishop Gregory Aymond, church staff and attorneys. He testified that he has received a “brief overview” of the Church’s reorganization plan.
This plan includes a $230 million settlement with survivors and crucial non-monetary remedies. These remedies outline new policies and establish an internal review board to handle any future instances of sexual abuse.
Commitment to Prevention
The presiding bankruptcy judge, Meredith Grabill, stressed the vital importance of prevention moving forward.
Checchio was resolute in his commitment to the court, stating: “With all my heart and with any energy I have.”
The incoming Archbishop shared relevant experience from his former diocese in New Jersey. Checchio became Bishop of the Diocese of Metuchen as one of his predecessors, Theodore Edgar McCarrick, faced sexual abuse allegations.
Checchio testified that in New Jersey, he increased record-keeping and law enforcement referrals by bringing in a county prosecutor and a former state attorney general to assist in internal reviews.
Calls for Outside Oversight
One survivor, who alleges her abuse was never recorded by the New Orleans Archdiocese, expressed a desire for outside oversight on the new Internal Review Board.
Survivor Patricia Moody shared her perspective on the need for external involvement after listening to Checchio’s testimony.
“I think that would be amazing. I think that would really give everyone the confidence in the policies and procedures. It’s a commitment from the church. It’s a commitment from him,” Moody said.
Survivor Testimonies Continue
Pat Moody testified Friday, and she is one of about a dozen survivors scheduled to be heard from before the hearings wrap up on December 4th.
Moody will also serve as a member of the newly formed Internal Review Board.