All the professional research in the area of clergy sexual abuse seems to agree that competent, professional intervention is necessary to heal the wounds of the victims, their families, the parish family, and the community at large, in the cases of clergy sexual abuse. The original Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People mandated that each diocese/eparchy extend outreach toward the victims and also toward the parish community. Professionals in the industry insist that intervention is necessary to provide methods of healing even if parishioners claim they do not need it or that they are already healed. Without effective intervention, so say the professionals, there is no "moving on" without extremely damaging consequences.
Since the arrest of Mark Campobello on charges of child sexual abuse, St. Peter parishioners have been denied effective intervention. The bishop has not addressed the parish in person nor has he sent a delegate from the diocese to do so. This is a clear violation of the Charter that he helped craft.
Parishioners heard of the allegations against Campobello from the morning headlines. No written communication was ever sent to registered parishioners, either by the parish or the diocese. The same held true after the arrest and conviction of choir director Michael Pavone for the murder of Keith Sutherland. Instead of welcoming comments, concerns, and questions parishioners might have, Doran and Jarmoluk ignored and discouraged expressions of concern. Parishioners were instructed to "stop gossiping", "stop airing our dirty laundry", and "move on".
Such a response to such serious allegations naturally leads to distrust and more questions such as, "What are they hiding?", "What are they afraid of?", and "How do I know my children safe over there?".
A controlled forum is one of the methods that contribute to healing for individuals who have been betrayed or otherwise affected. At this time, this web site provides the means for parishioners and others to share their comments, concerns, questions, and experiences in a respectable manner. We hope to give a voice to those who have been silenced. We hope to help accomplish in 2007 what parish and diocesan officials should have done in 2002.
Click here to read our statement on the recent $2.2 million settlement of the Rockford Diocese to two victims of Fr. Mark Campobello.
All are welcomed to read and participate in this web site. You need not be a member of St. Peter or even a Catholic. Everyone has something of value to add which might touch the heart of another visitor. Please include your full name for commentaries and testimonies but we will withhold names upon request. Thank you for your interest. It is time the people spoke up.
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