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  Reactions Varied As Catholics Absorb Diocese Bankruptcy Decision

WOI
October 12, 2006

http://www.woi-tv.com/Global/story.asp?S=5529797&nav=1LFX

Davenport, Iowa A decision by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Davenport to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to deal with priest sex abuse cases is drawing mixed reaction from many eastern Iowa Catholics.

Bishop William Franklin says the diocese had to file for financial protection to ensure the financial health of the church.

To some, it's a necessary move to preserve the diocese's long-term mission.

But others, including some who filed sexual abuse claims, are frustrated. They say the filing could prevent a public airing of conduct by abusive priests and efforts to conceal those misdeeds by past diocese leaders.

The Chapter 11 decision came less than two weeks before the diocese was scheduled to go to court in the first of three trials involving former Sioux City Bishop Lawrence Soens.

Meanwhile, the Davenport diocese and the bishop have scheduled a ten a-m news conference today in Davenport.

 
 

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