BALTIMORE (MD)
WBALTV 11 [Baltimore, MD]
October 23, 2026
By Kate Amara
The Archdiocese of Baltimore and the survivors committee reported significant progress during Friday’s bankruptcy court hearing, raising hopes for a settlement in the church’s Chapter 11 case by the end of the year.
“We have three full days of mediation next week,” one lawyer said during the hearing. “Locking ourselves in a courtroom will get a deal done, hopefully.”
The court was told that the structure of the plan is not an issue, but the dollar amount remains a key point of negotiation.
“We are working toward a monetary resolution,” the lawyer added.
The mediation now includes three parties, as Baltimore’s Catholic parishes, schools, and affiliates have been brought into the discussions.
Attorney Teresa Lancaster, an abuse survivor, shared her cautious perspective on the developments.
“I refuse to get too excited about it. My concern is for the survivors, you know, they’ve been led ups and downs and they hang on every word,” she said. “I have a little bit of hope, but I’m skeptical,”
She also raised concerns about the future, saying that the an agreement should include stipulations on protecting future children.
In a statement, a church representative told WBAL-TV 11 News: “The Archdiocese remains fully committed to working with all parties toward a resolution. Our focus continues to be on providing meaningful compensation to survivors and sustaining the Church’s mission of service.”
Due to court-ordered confidentiality, the current framework and financial details of the plan have not been made public. The judge emphasized the importance of reaching a settlement agreement by the end of the year.