A TEXAS Catholic Diocese has published a list of just over 300 priests who stand accused of historical sexual abuse dating as far back as the 1940s.
The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston posted the names of the Texas priest embroiled in this latest clergy abuse crisis.
According to Texas church officials, the majority of the priests named in the list are either dead or have already been removed from the clergy.
Cardinal Daniel DiNardo of the Galveston-Houston diocese said: “The Bishops of Texas have decided to release the names of these priests at this time because it is right and just and to offer healing and hope to those who have suffered.”
Two priests in the Houston area are facing fresh allegations while a San Antonio diocese confirmed one unnamed living priest is currently being investigated.
Today we join with the other Catholic dioceses of Texas to publish the names of priests credibly accused of sexual abuse or misconduct with minors since 1950. The complete list can be viewed online at https://t.co/pm5FqtojAz. pic.twitter.com/KfQPwJeJRj
— Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston (@archgh) January 31, 2019
The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) is now calling on law enforcement officials to conduct a thorough independent investigation.
“The only way to ensure that the bishops here in Texas are truly sincere about rebuilding their sacred trust is to allow for independent, properly trained experts in law enforcement to review all the files,” a statement from SNAP said.
The announcements come as further allegations of wrongdoing in the Catholic church emerge over in California, where more than 80 Catholic priests stand accused of sexually abusing minors over a period of six decades.
The incidents, which are said to have taken place in the San Bernardino diocese, iinvolve 84 priests. Of this number 53 have already died while its unclear as to whether the remainder are still working or are under supervision.
