In what is a victory for all Survivors who find themselves part of a Diocese bankruptcy, a Survivor abused by a Diocese of Winona NY priest has been awarded $7.6 million by a jury.  This is an important development because the defendant in the lawsuit was US Fire Insurance, an insurer who chose not to settle with the Official Committee of Survivors in the Winona bankruptcy.  Now, that insurer is liable for this settlement and the costs associated with its defense.  Further information regarding the Winona decision can be found at Survivor Abused by Diocese of Winona Priest Sees Victory in the Courtroom, Awarded $7.6 Million – Jeff Anderson and Associates

The Official Committee of Survivors of Sexual Abuse appointed to advocate for all Survivors in the Santa Rosa Diocese bankruptcy has noted the election of a new leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV.  This has raised concerns among some regarding his commitment to the prevention and investigation of sexual abuse in the Church.  This article summarizes those concerns.  The Official Committee wishes to acknowledge those concerns and share that it is fully committed to its work in this bankruptcy to both gain a financial settlement for Survivors and the adoption of policies that will end sexual abuse within the Church.

On February 6, 2025, eight Survivors presented impact statements at a hearing before the Bankruptcy Court. Bishop Robert F. Vasa and other Diocese representatives were also present to hear the impact statements. The Committee is grateful to the brave Survivors who shared the truth about their abuse and its effect on their lives. The Committee is also hopeful that the impact statements will increase understanding regarding the tremendous pain and challenges Survivors endured and continue to endure as a result of their difficult experiences. At this time, no additional hearings for the presentation of impact statements have been scheduled or approved by the Court, but additional hearings may be possible if more Survivors express an interest in presenting a statement.

On February 6, 2025, at 1 pm Pacific Standard Time, a group of Survivors will present impact statements during a two-hour session to the Bankruptcy Court. The purpose of the presentation is to increase engagement of Survivors and increase understanding of their stories in the bankruptcy case. The Committee believes that the presentation of Survivors’ stories in the bankruptcy court is a powerful way to provide all parties involved the opportunity to hear and have a greater understanding of the devastating trauma survivors have endured, and the Committee hopes that it may bring some healing to survivors.