February 13, 2019
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Today I am fulfilling a commitment I made to publish a list of all clergy credibly accused of child sexual abuse in the Diocese of Arlington. I made this commitment in the hope that providing such a list might help some victims and survivors of clergy sexual abuse to find further healing and consolation.
The publishing of this list will bring a range of emotions for all of us. Embarrassment, frustration, anger and hurt are all natural emotions to experience in a time such as this. I share those emotions.
Today I also renew my commitment to continue to implement our policies and protocols, established in accord with the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops' 2002 Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. These have proven to be effective in preventing abuse, standardizing reporting procedures to legal authorities and investigating allegations of sexual abuse of minors. Please know that I remain actively engaged in addressing these issues and pursuing ways to improve our existing efforts.
For victims and survivors of sexual abuse by members of the clergy, I remain open to meeting with you and hearing your stories. Having met with numerous victims and survivors of sexual abuse, both in group settings and in individual meetings, I continue to be inspired by your strength and your resolve.
I am deeply sorry for what has happened to you. You can be assured and confident of my ongoing pastoral care.
Through the mercy of God, may all who have suffered in the Diocese of Arlington as a result of clergy sexual abuse receive healing. May Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us that we go forward under God's guidance toward a future in which all of God's children are safe and secure.
Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge
Bishop of Arlington
Diocese of Arlington commitments regarding allegations of sexual abuse and the protection of God's children:
- No priest or deacon currently in active ministry have been credibly accused of child sexual abuse
- We report EVERY allegation of sexual abuse to legal authorities and fully cooperate with their investigation
- Our Review Board, which reviews all available evidence provided by the Diocese and legal authorities with regard to allegations of sexual abuse after law enforcement is notified, is made up of mostly lay volunteers with professional expertise (medical, psychological, legal (civil and canonical), and child abuse)
- All staff and volunteers who work with children are screened before they are given access to children or ministries
- All staff and volunteers who work with children are trained to identify inappropriate behavior, grooming techniques used by abusers, and how to report suspicious behavior or abuse
- Each and every allegation of sexual abuse is taken seriously
The list is being published after a full review of all clergy files by experienced and independent examiners (former FBI personnel) who were given full access to all information and files from the history of the Diocese of Arlington since its founding in 1974. In addition to this review, all pertinent information was also fully considered by the Arlington Diocesan Review Board.
Established after the implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People (2002) and consisting mostly of lay men and women, the Diocesan Review Board examines allegations of sexual abuse of minors by clergy and makes recommendations to the Bishop regarding the credibility of the allegations. Prior to the Review Board's deliberations, the Diocese first reports an allegation to law enforcement and provides them all available related information.
The Diocese cooperates with legal authorities and ensures that its internal investigation does not interfere with their investigation. The Diocesan Review Board then assesses the credibility of the allegation received. It is the practice of the Diocese of Arlington to provide support and assistance to anyone who has been sexually abused, whether or not the credibility of the accusation has been established and regardless of whether the abuser was a cleric.
The names on the list below were considered by the Diocesan Review Board, which then gave its recommendation that these names be published. Bishop Burbidge accepted its recommendation.
Priests on the list below have been accused of sexual abuse of a child and meet at least one of the following criteria:
- The accused admitted guilt;
- There has been a determination of guilt in a criminal court, civil court or by an ecclesiastical process;
- The Arlington or Richmond Diocesan Review Board found the allegation to be credible.
According to diocesan protocol, the faithful have been advised of the names of priests in religious orders or from other dioceses who have served in the Diocese of Arlington and whose names have been previously published by other sources for credible allegations of sexual abuse of minors. That list can be found in the frequently asked questions section of this page.
Note: This list is provided based on information available at the time it is published. If the need arises to add names to this list based on the criteria explained above, the Diocese will do so.
A list of priests credibly accused of sexual abuse of a minor has also been published by the Diocese of Richmond. Go to RichmondDiocese.org to view that list.
Priests Incardinated to the Diocese of Arlington
| Name | Year of Birth / Ordination | Incardinated in Arlington Diocese | Removed from Public Ministry | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robert C. Brooks | Year of Birth: 1932 Year of Ordination: 1961 (Diocese of Richmond) |
1974 | 2004 | Retired with no active ministry/faculties: 2006 |
| Christopher M. Buckner | Year of Birth: 1952 Year of Ordination: 1980 |
NA | 2007 | Father Buckner was accused of the sexual abuse of a minor in 2007 and was immediately removed from public ministry. The accusation was found to be credible by the Diocesan Review Board. Father Buckner contests the finding of the Diocesan Review Board. Due to poor health, he waived his right to further canonical recourse, and by mutual agreement between him and the Diocese, he retired without faculties to exercise priestly ministry in 2018. This agreement was approved by the Holy See. |
| Curtis L. Clark | Year of Birth: 1946 Year of Ordination: 1987 |
NA | 2003 | Laicized: 2004 |
| William J. Erbacher | Year of Birth: 1946 Year of Ordination: 1987 |
NA | 2001 | Deceased: 2021. Directed to live a life of prayer and penance by the Holy See: 2010 |
| Charles W. Gerloff III | Year of Birth: 1915 Year of Ordination: 1945 (Diocese of Richmond) |
1974 | NA | Deceased: 2005 |
| Andrew W. Krafcik | Year of Birth: 1927 Year of Ordination: 1959 (Diocese of Richmond) |
1984 | 2002 | Deceased: 2021. Dismissed from the clerical state: 2004 |
| Christopher J. Mould | Year of Birth: 1959 Year of Ordination: 1988 |
NA | 2019 | No active ministry/faculties: 2019 |
| John J. Munley | Year of Birth: 1924 Year of Ordination: 1954 (Diocese of Richmond) |
1975 | NA | Deceased:1995 |
| Tran Dinh Nhi | Year of Birth: 1944 Year of Ordination: 1971 |
1980 | 2006 | Father Nhi was accused of the sexual abuse of a minor in 2006; he was immediately removed from public ministry. The accusation was found to be credible by the Diocesan Review Board. Father Nhi contests the finding of the Diocesan Review Board. He remains removed from public ministry pending a final determination of his canonical status. |
| William T. Reinecke | Year of Birth: 1939 Year of Ordination: 1965 (Diocese of Richmond) |
1974 | NA | Deceased: 1992 |
| Stephen A. Roszel | Year of Birth: 1951 Year of Ordination: 1977 |
NA | 2003 | No active ministry/faculties: 2003 |
| Clarence N. Watkins | Year of Birth: 1933 Year of Ordination: 1967 (Diocese of Richmond) |
1974 | NA | Deceased: 2012 |
Priests Incardinated Outside the Arlington Diocese
| Name | Year of Birth | Year of Ordination | Removed from Public Ministry | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scott A. Asalone, O.F.M. Cap. (Capuchin Friars, Capuchin Province of the Stigmata) | 1956 | 1983 | 1993 | Dismissed from his religious order: 2007. Arrested 2020. |
| Richard P. Baird, C.PP.S. (Missionaries of the Precious Blood) | 1912 | 1940 | NA | Deceased: 1996. Father Baird was posthumously accused of sexual abuse of a minor. The allegation was investigated and found credible by the Missionaries of the Precious Blood |
| Gervase Cain, T.O.R. | 1931 | 1957 (Franciscan Friars of the Third Order Regular) | 2004 | Deceased: 2018 |
| Michael Kuhn, Y.A. | 1957 | 1997 | 2022 | The case is pending further review and guidance from The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith |
| Leo P. Landry, C.S.S. | 1929 | 1958 (Congregation of the Sacred Stigmata) | 1972 | Convicted: 2004. Deceased: 2022. |
| Ronald J. Luka, C.M.F. | Unknown | 1963 | Unknown | Deceased: 2011. |
| Roger A. McQuarrie, O.F.M. (Franciscan Friars, Holy Name Province) | 1924 | 1950 | NA | Deceased: 1995. |
Richmond Diocese Priests Later Incardinated into Arlington Diocese
*Priests in this list were originally ordained for the Diocese of Richmond and later were incardinated in the Diocese of Arlington after it was established in 1974. They were posthumously accused of the sexual abuse of a minor. The incidents (all alleged to have taken place before 1974) were investigated and found credible by the Diocese of Richmond Review Board.
| Name | Year of Birth / Ordination | Incardinated in Arlington Diocese | Removed from Public Ministry | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edward P. Browne | Year of Birth: 1925 Year of Ordination: 1951 |
1974 | NA | Deceased: 2002 |
| Leo P. Creamer | Year of Birth: 1918 Year of Ordination: 1944 |
1974 | NA | Deceased: 1991 |
| Harris M. Findlay | Year of Birth: 1914 Year of Ordination: 1941 |
1974 | NA | Deceased: 1980 |
| Paul J. Kamerdze | Year of Birth: 1942 Year of Ordination: 1970 |
1974 | NA | Deceased: 1984 |
| Robert E. Nudd | Year of Birth: 1922 Year of Ordination: 1949 |
1974 | NA | Deceased: 1978 |
| John W. Rea | Year of Birth: 1918 Year of Ordination: 1945 |
1974 | NA | Deceased: 2002 |
| Austin L. Ryder | Year of Birth: 1915 Year of Ordination: 1948 |
1974 | NA | Deceased: 1981 |
En Español
13 de febrero de 2019
Estimados hermanos y hermanas en Cristo:
Hoy cumplo el compromiso contraído de publicar una lista de todos los miembros del clero con imputaciones creíbles de abuso sexual de menores en la Diócesis de Arlington. Contraje este compromiso con la esperanza de que la publicación de esa lista pudiera ayudar a algunas víctimas y sobrevivientes del abuso sexual por miembros del clero a lograr mayor sanación y consuelo.
La publicación de esta lista nos traerá toda una gama de emociones a todos nosotros. La vergüenza, la frustración, la ira y el dolor son todas emociones naturales que experimentamos en un momento como este. Comparto esas emociones.
Hoy, también renuevo mi compromiso de seguir implementando nuestras políticas y protocolos, establecidos de acuerdo con el Estatuto para la protección de niños y jóvenes promulgado en el año 2002 por la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de los Estados Unidos. Se ha demostrado que tales políticas y protocolos han sido eficaces para prevenir el abuso, normalizar los procedimientos de denuncia ante las autoridades públicas e investigar las imputaciones de abuso sexual de menores. Me permito reiterarles que seguiré dedicado activamente a abordar estos asuntos y a buscar formas de mejorar los esfuerzos en marcha.
A las víctimas y a los sobrevivientes del abuso sexual por miembros del clero les reitero que seguiré dispuesto a reunirme con ustedes y a escuchar sus relatos. Después de haberme reunido con numerosas víctimas y sobrevivientes del abuso sexual, tanto individualmente como en grupos, su fortaleza y su determinación siguen siendo una fuente de inspiración para mí. Siento profundamente lo que les ha ocurrido. Pueden tener la seguridad y la confianza de que tendrán mi constante cuidado pastoral.
Por la misericordia de Dios, ruego por la sanación de todos los que han sufrido en la Diócesis de Arlington como resultado del abuso sexual por miembros del clero. Que María, la Madre de la Iglesia, ruegue por nosotros a medida que seguimos adelante guiados por Nuestro Señor hacia un futuro en que todos los hijos de Dios estén seguros y protegidos.
Atentamente en Cristo,
Monseñor Michael F. Burbidge
Obispo de la Diócesis de Arlington
La lista se publica después de una revisión detallada de todos los expedientes sobre miembros del clero efectuada por examinadores expertos e independientes (antiguos miembros del personal del FBI) a quienes se dio pleno acceso a toda la información y a todos los archivos de la historia de la Diócesis de Arlington desde su fundación en 1974. Además de este examen, la Junta Diocesana de Revisión de Arlington estudió a cabalidad toda la información pertinente.
La Junta Diocesana de Revisión, establecida después de la implementación del Estatuto para la protección de niños y jóvenes (2002) y formada principalmente por mujeres y hombres laicos, examina las imputaciones de abuso sexual de menores por miembros del clero y formula recomendaciones al Obispo con respecto a la credibilidad de las imputaciones. Antes de las deliberaciones de dicha Junta, la Diócesis primero denuncia una alegación ante las autoridades encargadas de la aplicación de la ley y les proporciona toda la información pertinente que esté disponible.
La Diócesis de Arlington coopera con las autoridades públicas y se asegura de que su investigación interna no interfiera en la efectuada por dichas autoridades. Luego, la Junta Diocesana de Revisión evalúa la credibilidad de la imputación recibida. La Diócesis tiene por práctica prestar apoyo y asistencia a cualquier persona que haya sufrido abuso sexual, ya sea que se haya establecido o no la credibilidad de la acusación e independientemente de que el infractor haya sido un miembro del clero.
La Junta Diocesana de Revisión consideró los nombres que figuran en la lista siguiente y luego recomendó que se publicaran. Monseñor Burbidge aceptó esa recomendación.
Los sacerdotes que figuran en la lista siguiente han sido acusados de abuso sexual de un menor y se clasifican dentro de uno de los siguientes criterios:
- El acusado reconoció su culpabilidad.
- Ha habido una determinación de culpabilidad en un tribunal penal, un tribunal civil o un proceso eclesiástico.
- La Junta Diocesana de Revisión de Arlington o de Richmond determinó que la imputación era creíble.
Según el protocolo diocesano, se ha informado a los fieles sobre los nombres de los sacerdotes de órdenes religiosas o de otras diócesis que han prestado servicios en la Diócesis de Arlington y cuyos nombres han sido publicados antes por otras fuentes por causa de imputaciones creíbles de abuso sexual de menores. Esa lista puede consultarse en las preguntas frecuentes.
Nota: Esta lista se proporciona a partir de información disponible en el momento de su publicación. Si surge la necesidad de agregar nombres a esta lista según los criterios previamente explicados, la Diócesis procederá a hacerlo.
La Diócesis de Richmond también ha publicado una lista de sacerdotes con imputaciones creíbles de abuso sexual de menores, que puede consultarse en el siguiente enlace: RichmondDiocese.org
Sacerdotes incardinados en la Diócesis de Arlington
| Nombre | Año de nacimiento / Año de ordenación | Incardinado en la Diócesis de Arlington | Suspendido del ministerio público | Estado |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robert C. Brooks | Año de nacimiento: 1932 Año de ordenación: 1961 (Diócesis de Richmond) |
1974 | 2004 | Jubilado sin ejercicio del mini sterio activo y sin facultades para ejercerio: 2006 |
| Christopher M. Buckner | Año de nacimiento: 1952 Año de ordenación: 1980 |
No se aplica | 2007 | Al Padre Buckner se le hizo una acusación de abuso sexual de un menor en 2007 y se le suspendió inmediatamente del ministerio público. La Junta Diocesana de Revisión determinó que la acusación era creíble. El Padre Buckner impugna la conclusión de la Junta Diocesana de Revisión. Por deterioro de su estado de salud, renunció a su derecho a otro recurso canónico y, por mutuo acuerdo entre él y la Diócesis, se jubiló sin facultades para ejercer el ministerio sacerdotal en 2018. Este acuerdo fue aprobado por la Santa Sede. |
| Curtis L. Clark | Año de nacimiento: 1946 Año de ordenación: 1987 |
No se aplica | 2003 | Laicizado: 2004 |
| William J. Erbacher | Año de nacimiento: 1946 Año de ordenación: 2001 |
No se aplica | 2001 | Fallecido: 2021. La Santa Sede le mandó llevar una vida de oración y penitencia: 2010 |
| Andrew W. Krafcik | Año de nacimiento: 1927 Año de ordenación: 1959 (Diócesis de Richmond) |
1984 | 2002 | Suspendido del estado clerical: 2004 |
| Christopher J. Mould | Año de nacimiento: 1959 Año de ordenación: 1988 |
No se aplica | 2019 | Sin ejercicio del ministerio activo y sin facultades para ejercerlo: 2019 |
| John J. Munley | Año de nacimiento: 1924 Año de ordenación: 1954 (Diócesis de Richmond) |
1975 | No se aplica | Fallecido:1995 |
| Tran Dinh Nhi | Año de nacimiento: 1944 Año de ordenación: 1971 |
1980 | 2006 | Al Padre Nhi se le acusó de abuso sexual de un menor en 2006; inmediatamente se le suspendio del ministerio público. La Junta Diocesana de Revisión determinó que la acusación era creíble. El Padre Nhi impugna la conclusión de la Junta Diocesana de Revisión. Permanece suspendido del ministerio público en espera de una determinación final de su estado canónico. |
| William T. Reinecke | Año de nacimiento: 1939 Año de ordenación: 1965 (Diócesis de Richmond) |
1974 | No se aplica | Fallecido: 1992 |
| Stephen A. Roszel | Año de nacimiento: 1951 Año de ordenación: 1977 |
No se aplica | 2003 | Sin ejercicio del ministerio activo y sin facultades para ejercerlo: 2003 |
| Clarence N. Watkins | Año de nacimiento: 1933 Año de ordenación: 1967 (Diócesis de Richmond) |
1974 | No se aplica | Fallecido: 2012 |
Priests Incardinated Outside the Arlington Diocese
| Nombre | Año de nacimiento | Año de ordenación | Suspendido del ministerio público | Estado |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scott A. Asalone, O.F.M. Cap. (Frailes Capuchina de los Estigmas) | 1956 | 1983 | 1993 | Destituido por su orden religiosa: 2007 |
| Richard P. Baird, C.PP.S. (Missionaries of the Precious Blood) | 1912 | 1940 | No se aplica | Fallecido: 1996. Al Padre Baird se le hizo una acusación póstuma de abuso sexual de un menor. Los Misioneros de la Preciosa Sangre investigaron la imputación y determinaron que era creíble |
| Gervase Cain, T.O.R. | 1931 | 1957 (Franciscan Friars of the Third Order Regular) | 2004 | Deceased: 2018 |
| Michael Kuhn, Y.A. | 1957 | 1997 | 2022 | The case is pending further review and guidance from The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith |
| Leo P. Landry, C.S.S. | 1929 | 1958 | 1972 | Convicted: 2004. Fallecido: 2022. |
| Ronald J. Luka, C.M.F. | Unknown | 1963 | Unknown | Fallecido: 2011. |
| Roger A. McQuarrie, O.F.M. (Franciscan Friars, Holy Name Province) | 1924 | 1950 | No se aplica | Fallecido: 1995. |
F
Sacerdotes de la Diócesis de Richmond posteriormente incardinados en la Diócesis de Arlington
*Los sacerdotes de esta lista fueron ordenados originalmente para la Diócesis de Richmond y más tarde fueron incardinados en la Diócesis de Arlington después de su establecimiento en 1974. Se les hizo una acusación póstuma de abuso sexual de menores. La Junta Diocesana de Revisión de Richmond investigó y determinó que los incidentes eran creíbles (todos presuntamente ocurridos antes de 1974).
| Nombre | Año de nacimiento / Año de ordenación | Incardinado en la Diócesis de Arlington | Suspendido del ministerio público | Estado |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edward P. Browne | Año de nacimiento: 1925 Año de ordenación: 1951 |
1974 | No se aplica | Fallecido: 2002 |
| Leo P. Creamer | Año de nacimiento: 1918 Año de ordenación: 1944 |
1974 | No se aplica | Fallecido: 1991 |
| Harris M. Findlay | Año de nacimiento: 1914 Año de ordenación: 1941 |
1974 | No se aplica | Fallecido: 1980 |
| Paul J. Kamerdze | Año de nacimiento: 1942 Año de ordenación 1970 |
1974 | No se aplica | Fallecido: 1984 |
| Robert E. Nudd | Año de nacimiento: 1922 Año de ordenación: 1949 |
1974 | No se aplica | Fallecido: 1978 |
| John W. Rea | Año de nacimiento: 1918 Año de ordenación: 1945 |
1974 | No se aplica | Fallecido: 2002 |
| Austin L. Ryder | Año de nacimiento: 1915 Año de ordenación: 1948 |
1974 | No se aplica | Fallecido: 1981 |
La Diócesis de Arlington fue fundada en 1974. Los sacerdotes que sirvieron en los límites actuales de la Diócesis de Arlington antes de 1974 y hayan sido acusados de manera creíble de abuso sexual a un menor, habrían sido revisados por el Comité de Evaluación de la Diócesis de Richmond. La lista de abusos del clero de la Diócesis de Richmond se puede encontrar aquí: richmonddiocese.org/list
Nota:
En 2012, se presentaron imputaciones a la Diócesis de Arlington contra el Padre Terry Specht. En cumplimiento de la política vigente, las imputaciones se denunciaron de inmediato a las autoridades encargadas de la aplicación de la ley y al Padre Specht se le impuso licencia administrativa. La Junta Diocesana de Revisión de Arlington no pudo tomar una decisión referente a la credibilidad de las acusaciones contra el Padre Specht. Además, las autoridades encargadas de la aplicación de la ley no han presentado ningún cargo ni continuado la investigación. Poco después de que se le impusiera licencia administrativa, el estado de salud del padre llegó a tal punto que lo llevó a solicitar jubilación por razones médicas, la cual se le concedió. Ahora está jubilado, no tiene facultades para ejercer el ministerio sacerdotal y no regresará a ejercerlo. El 28 de diciembre del 2021 se notificó a la Diócesis de Arlington que el Padre Terry Specht fue acusado formalmente por un Gran Jurado en el Condado de Fairfax por cargos relacionados con el presunto abuso sexual de un menor. Para leer la declaración completa de la diócesis sobre este asunto, HAGA CLIC AQUÍ
Diocesan responses on clergy abuse
Navigation Links
- Priests Credibly Accused of Sexual Abuse of a Minor
- Report a suspected incident of child abuse or sexual misconduct
- See diocesan responses to the sexual abuse crisis
- See important notices regarding diocesan clergy and employees
Here are the commitments the Diocese of Arlington makes with regard to allegations of sexual abuse and protecting God's children:
- No priest or deacon currently in active ministry have been credibly accused of child sexual abuse
- We report EVERY allegation of sexual abuse to legal authorities and fully cooperate with their investigation
- Our Review Board, which reviews all available evidence provided by the Diocese and legal authorities with regard to allegations of sexual abuse after law enforcement is notified, is made up of mostly lay volunteers with professional expertise (medical, psychological, legal (civil and canonical), and child abuse)
- All staff and volunteers who work with children are screened before they are given access to children or ministries
- All staff and volunteers who work with children are trained to identify inappropriate behavior, grooming techniques used by abusers, and how to report suspicious behavior or abuse
- Each and every allegation of sexual abuse is taken seriously
How to Report a Suspected Incident of Child Abuse or Sexual Misconduct
The Office of Victim Assistance seeks to reach out and support victims of sexual abuse. If you believe there is an incident of child abuse or sexual misconduct, please visit this page to fill out a form and return it to the Victim Assistance Office. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding Child Protection policies please call the Office of Child Protection at 703-841-3847.
Get StartedImportant notices:
- October 5, 2022 - Father Terry Specht found not guilty of sexual abuse of a minor
- October 5, 2022 - Statement regarding Fr. Robert Buchmeier of the Archdiocese of Washington
- August 25, 2022 - Fall River Diocese issues statement on Fr. Michael Kuhn
- March 14, 2022 - Franciscan Friars announce Fr. David Morrier has pled guilty to sexual battery
- November 3, 2021 - Statement by the Diocese of Arlington regarding Perez-Alcala and Secular Institute Stabat Mater
- September 25, 2021 - St. John Neumann Former Employee in Police Custody
- September 17, 2021 - St. Joseph Parish Volunteer Arrested
- July 16, 2021 - Deceased priests found credible accused
- March 19, 2020 - Allegation against deceased priest found credible
- March 17, 2020 - Catholic Diocese of Arlington responds to announcement that former Capuchin priest is charged with abuse
- November 25, 2019 - Youth Apostles priest found not credibly accused of abuse by Fall River Diocese
- October 19, 2019 - Bishop Burbidge issues letter to St. Andrew the Apostle Church regarding Fr. Christopher Mould
- September 28, 2019 - Bishop Burbidge addresses outcome of investigation regarding Fr. Ronald Escalante
- July 24, 2019 - Diocesan Review Board concludes Father Michael Duesterhaus not credibly accused of child sexual abuse
- July 19, 2019 - Diocese of Arlington Responds to WJLA storyon the late Msgr. William Reinecke
- May 4, 2019 - Bishop Burbidge issues another letter to parishioners of St. Francis de Sales Parish regarding Fr. Ronald Escalante
- March 8, 2019 - Bishop Burbidge issues letter to faithful of St. Francis de Sales Parish regarding Fr. Ronald Escalante
- April 23, 2019 - Response to Valerie Cury's article, "New Revelations in the Father Escalante Saga" published in the Blue Ridge Leader on April 17, 2019
- December 21, 2018 - Notice Regarding Fr. William Erbacher
- December 7, 2018 - Diocese of Arlington priest, serving in Purcellville, placed on leave
- October 23, 2018 - Diocese of Fall River priest, serving in Arlington Diocese, placed on leave
- September 18, 2018 - Allegation notice - Gary Nuhn (Updated/Corrected at 4:22 pm on Sept 19, 2018)
- August 31, 2018 - Notice of Ryan T. Pick (Updated at 12 pm on Sept 24, 2018)
- August 25, 2018 - Notice regarding Mr. Kenneth Cassity
- August 9, 2018 - Statement regarding Diocese of Harrisburg priest accused of sexual abuse
- March 14, 2018 - Priest placed on administrative leave (Updated January 17, 2019)
Priests listed by other Dioceses or religious orders
The men listed below were credibly accused of sexual abuse of a minor outside of the Diocese of Arlington, but served in the Diocese of Arlington at some point in time.
- Richard Ahern (Stigmatine Fathers)
- R. Dixon Beattie (served in the geography of what was the Diocese of Richmond, prior to 1974, but is now the Diocese of Arlington)
- John P. Blankenship (served in the geography of what was the Diocese of Richmond, prior to 1974, but is now the Diocese of Arlington)
- John R. Butler (served in the geography of what was the Diocese of Richmond, prior to 1974, but is now the Diocese of Arlington)
- Fernando Cristancho (Istmina-Tado, Colombia)
- A.J. Cote, OP (service in the Arlington Diocese predated his ordination as a Dominican priest)
- Patrick Cassidy (served in the geography of what was the Diocese of Richmond, prior to 1974, but is now the Diocese of Arlington)
- Kevin Downey, OFM
- Daniel Drinan, CMF
- Richard Grant, OSFS
- Harold Hermley, OSFS
- Robert Hermley, OSFS
- Dennis Killion, OSFS
- Reginald Richard LaFleur (Roseau, Dominica)
- Ronald Luka, CMF
- Anthony McGinley (Harrisburg, Pa.)
- James McLucas (New York)
- John Nestor (Wollongong, Australia)
- James W. O'Neill, OSFS
- James L. Rizer (served in the geography of what was the Diocese of Richmond, prior to 1974, but is now the Diocese of Arlington)
- Jerome F. Weber (Syracuse, N.Y.)
Diocesan responses:
- May 9, 2019 - Bishop Burbidge welcomes new universal norms issued by Pope Francis
- February 13, 2019 - Priests Credibly Accused of Sexual Abuse of a Minor
- View frequently asked questions
- View the print version of the FAQs in English or in Spanish
- Statement by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge on Former Archbishop McCarrick in Response to Decree by the Holy See
- November 16, 2018 - Bishop Burbidge discusses his reaction to a surprising Monday announcement from the Holy See and the annual Fall General Assembly where U.S. Bishops almost exclusively focused on the sexual abuse crisis and stronger accountability for bishops (on the Walk Humbly Podcast)
- October 26, 2018 - Bishop Burbidge shares his thoughts and response to the Virginia Attorney General investigation (on the Walk Humbly podcast)
- October 24, 2018 - Joint Statement from Bishop Michael F. Burbidge (Diocese of Arlington) and Bishop Barry C. Knestout (Diocese of Richmond) in Response to the Attorney General's Investigation (in English and Spanish)
- September 21, 2018 - An overview of Bishop Burbidge's continued response to the sexual abuse crisis
- September 20, 2018 - Statement by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge regarding actions of the Administrative Committee of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
- September 19, 2018 - Bishop Burbidge sends a letter to all parents of seminarians, restating his commitment to the protection of their sons and expressing his confidence in the seminaries to which the Diocese sends them for formation.
- September 17, 2018 - Bishop Burbidge offers his thoughts on Church leadership from the Vatican's recent meeting with Pope Francis to discuss the sex abuse crisis including how to keep bishops more accountable (on the Walk Humbly Podcast)
- September 10, 2018 - Bishop Burbidge met and consulted with the Diocesan Review Board. He is grateful to the lay men and women, priests, and consecrated religious who serve on this board for the expertise and wisdom they offer to him and the Diocese.
- September 7, 2018 - View all diocesan podcasts and show notes regarding the sex abuse scandal, the Pennsylvania grand jury report, and Archbishop Theodore McCarrick
- September 6, 2018 - local television stations WDVM NBC 25 interviewed Fr. Thomas Ferguson, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, regarding the current crisis facing the Church.
- August 30, 2018 - Bishop Burbidge expresses his support for an investigation into the allegations Archbishop Vigano made in an 11-page letter (on the Walk Humbly Podcast)
- August 29, 2018 - local television stations WJLA ABC 7and WRC-TV NBC4 interviewed Bishop Burbidge who offered his thoughts about the current crisis, his message to victims, and what he thought needed to change in order to regain the confidence of the Catholic faithful.
- August 26, 2018 - Bishop Burbidge's Homily for Mass for All Victims of Sexual Abuse and Their Continued Healing
- August 20, 2018 - Letter to the Faithful from Bishop Burbidge
- August 17, 2018 - In light of the Pennsylvania grand jury report, Bishop Burbidge discusses what he would do if he received an allegation of sexual abuse (on the Walk Humbly Podcast)
- August 3, 2018 - Bishop Burbidge addresses what must change in light of the allegations against Archbishop McCarrick (on the Walk Humbly Podcast)
- August 1, 2018 - Statement by Bishop Burbidge on accusations related to Archbishop Theodore McCarrick
- June 22, 2018 - Initial response to news that allegations of sexual abuse against then-Cardinal McCarrick were found to be “credible and substantiated" by the Archdiocese of New York (on the Walk Humbly Podcast)
- Prior to beginning a new year of formation, Bishop Burbidge met with seminarians to express his deep commitment to their well-being as they continue their vocational discernment. They had a frank, open, and respectful dialogue regarding the critical issues within our Church.
- During a recent deanery meeting with priests, Bishop Burbidge focused on the issues facing our Church and discussed ways we can do even more to protect the faithful and heal victims. He was most grateful for the pastoral and spiritual insights conveyed to him at this gathering. He looks forward to the six remaining deanery meetings with priests, as well as our upcoming Priest Study Day, which will allow time to join in prayer and to discuss these critical matters.
- Bishop Burbidge met with victims of sexual abuse through individual appointments and through an ongoing support group program facilitated by the Diocese.
- Bishop Burbidge has scheduled meetings with deacons and consecrated women religious, during which he will seek their feedback and input regarding what we have done so far and what should be done going forward.
- Bishop Burbidge will be inviting lay parish leaders to discuss the sex abuse crisis and its impact on our parishes and schools, while seeking advice for how we move forward as a diocese.
- At Bishop Burbidge's direction, the Office of Divine Worship offered liturgical resources and suggestions to parishes, inviting the faithful to fervent prayer for all victims and for our Church.
Vatican and USCCB responses:
- June 13, 2019 - USCCB: U.S. Bishops Vote in Favor of Three Additional Bishop Accountability Measures During Baltimore General Assembly
- June 13, 2019 - USCCB: U.S. Bishops' Vote in Favor of Moving Forward on Third-Party System for Reporting Abuse Allegations Against Bishops
- June 11, 2019 - USCCB: President of U.S. Bishops Conference Appoints Three New Members of National Review Board for the Chapter for Protection of Children and Young People
- June 7, 2019 - USCCB: U.S. Bishops To Meet June 11-14 In Baltimore; Assembly To Be Live Streamed, New Prevention Website Launched
- May 31, 2019 - USCCB: U.S. Bishops Release 2018 Annual Report on the Protection of Children and Young People
- May 9, 2019 - USCCB: President of U.S. Bishops' Conference Issues Statement on Pope Francis's Motu Proprio Ordering Worldwide Response to the Evil of Sexual Abuse
- May 9, 2019 - Vatican: Pope Francis issues Apostolic Letter regarding new norms for the whole Church on sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable adults, cover up
- February 24, 2019 - USCCB: President of U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Issues Statement at Close of Meeting on the Protection of Minors in the Church
- February 16, 2019 - USCCB: President of U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Issues Statement on Theodore McCarrick in Response to Judgement by the Holy See
- December 21, 2018 - Audience of the Holy Father with the Roman Curia
- December 13, 2018 - Australian Cardinal George Pell found guilty of sex abuse (Catholic News Service)
- November 14, 2018 - USCCB: President of U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Makes Statement at Close of Public Sessions; Fall General Assembly, Baltimore Nov. 12-14
- November 13, 2018 - USCCB: National Review Board Urges Need to Broaden the Scope of the Charter to Include Bishops; Lay Panel Urges Reform to Improve Transparency and Enhance Accountability
- November 12, 2018 - USCCB: President of U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Delivers Opening Address at Start of 2018 General Assembly in Baltimore, Nov. 12-14
- November 12-14, 2018 - USCCB VIDEO: US Bishops Gather to Discuss Concrete Measures in Response to Abuse Crisis
- October 29, 2018 - USCCB: U.S. Bishops To Meet Nov. 12-14 in Baltimore; Will Address Abuse Crisis and Action Items; Assembly to be Live Streamed, Live Tweeted, Carried Via Satellite
- October 23, 2018 - USCCB: U.S. Bishops Will Gather for Seven Days of Prayer and Reflection at Invitation of Pope Francis
- October 7, 2018 - USCCB: President of U.S. Bishops' Conference Welcomes Steps Holy See is Taking to Ensure Faithful are Protected from the Evil of Sexual Abuse
- September 19, 2018 - USCCB: U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Administrative Committee Statement on Sex Abuse Scandals; Committee Releases Actions to be Taken Within Its Authority
- September 13, 2018 - President of U.S. Bishops' Conference Issues Statement Following Meeting with Pope Francis
- September 12, 2018 - Pope to convene world meeting on abuse prevention with bishops' leaders
- August 28, 2018 - Statement from the National Review Board Calls for Lay Leadership Amid Sexual Abuse Crisis
- August 21, 2018 - Cardinal O'Malley calls for consequences for Church leadership
- August 20, 2018 - USCCB: President of U.S. Bishops' Conference Response to Pope Francis' Letter to the People of God
- August 20, 2018 - Letter of the Holy Father Francis to the People of God
- August 16, 2018 - Vatican responds to Pennsylvania Grand Jury abuse report (Vatican News)
- August 16, 2018 - President of U.S. Bishops' Conference Announces Effort That Will Involve Laity, Experts
- August 14, 2018 - President of U.S. Bishops' Conference and Committee Chairman Response to Pennsylvania Grand Jury Report
- August 1, 2018 - President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Issues Statement on Course of Action Responding to Moral Failures of Judgement on the Part of Church Leaders
- July 28, 2018 - President of U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Statement on Cardinal Theodore McCarrick Resignation from College of Cardinals
- July 28, 2018 - USCCB: Pope Francis Accepts Resignation of Cardinal Theodore McCarrick from College of Cardinals
How to report a suspected incident of child abuse or sexual misconduct
The Office of Victim Assistance seeks to reach out and support victims of sexual abuse. If you believe there is an incident of child abuse or sexual misconduct, please visit this page to fill out a form and return it to the Victim Assistance Office. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding Child Protection policies please call the Office of Child Protection at 703-841-3847.
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