PRESS RELEASE Diocese of Helena

For Immediate Release January 31, 2014 Contact: Dan Bartleson 406-442-5820, Ext. 22 406-475-0308 Diocese moves toward settlement in abuse claims The Diocese of Helena has taken a major step toward bringing resolution to 362 claims of abuse of minors by diocesan priests, religious community priests, women religious and lay workers who have served in the diocese, primarily between 30 and 60 years ago. On Friday, January 31, 2014, the Diocese will be filing a chapter 11 reorganization case before the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Montana to complete prebankruptcy mediated negotiations with known abuse survivors and the Dioceses liability insurance carriers. The Diocese chose a pastoral mode and entered into a confidential mediation process. The mediation resulted in the general parameters of proposed settlements with the victims and the insurance carriers. The details of written agreements are still being worked on by the parties. Under the supervision and ultimate approval of the Bankruptcy Court, $15 million would be available to compensate the currently identified victims with additional settlement funds for other and unknown victims. The process of obtaining Bankruptcy Court approval included the opportunity for victims and creditors to vote on the proposed settlement. The Diocese expects that its reorganization will be expedited by the pre-bankruptcy negotiations with all of the affected parties. On behalf of the entire Diocese of Helena, I express my profound sorrow and sincere apologies to anyone who was abused by a priest, a sister, or a lay Church worker, said Helena Bishop, George Leo Thomas. No child should experience harm from anyone who serves in the Church. The diocese has abuse prevention programs in place, including screening and training for employees, volunteers, priests and seminarians. The diocese has a board to review claims of abuse, whose members include a mother, a pastor, a deputy prosecutor, a retired law enforcement officer, social workers, and a counselor. Anyone wishing to report sexual abuse of a minor may contact the Victims Advocate for the diocese at 406-459-0513. Bishop Thomas indicated: I want to assure you that none of those who have been credibly accused remain active in ministry at this time. In fact, the majority of those accused have died. The Bishop also noted that the Diocese has taken responsibility in

this matter for claims involving members of religious communities who have served here. Efforts to include the Ursuline Sisters in the proposed settlements were inconclusive and they are not participating in the proposed resolution of this litigation. The majority of the proposed settlement for known and unknown victims will be funded by diocesan insurance carriers. It is anticipated that the diocese will need to provide at least $2.5 million to fund claims and the costs associated with the Court proceedings. Additionally, the diocese has been experiencing a tenuous financial condition which existed prior to, and is not related to the litigation. This condition has resulted in reduction in staff and services provided by the diocese as well as curtailing many parish building projects. Bishop Thomas indicated: While we may be a poorer Church, we remain unwaveringly committed to promoting the Good News of Jesus Christ. Once the reorganization proceedings conclude, we will be able to plan confidently for future ministry for the people of the Church of the Diocese of Helena. ***********************************************************************
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