Parishes Across Long Island Pay to Settle Abuse Claims
Catholic parishes in the Diocese of Rockville Centre contributed a total of $53 million toward a $323 million settlement to compensate survivors of sexual abuse. Every one of the diocese’s 136 parishes participated, regardless of whether they faced direct allegations. Some paid over $1 million, while others contributed five-figure sums. The settlement, finalized in December 2024, concludes a four-year bankruptcy process prompted by hundreds of abuse claims dating back decades.
Mixed Reactions from Clergy and Parishioners
Many parishioners and clergy members expressed frustration at being required to fund settlements for abuse cases from the 1950s onward. Fr. Christopher Sullivan of Holy Family Parish in Hicksville acknowledged the anger, writing, “If anyone is upset, so am I.” Some priests, like Fr. Gerard Gordon of St. Martin of Tours, sought to ease concerns while acknowledging the difficulty of using church funds for settlements. Others, like Fr. John J. McCartney of Notre Dame Parish in New Hyde Park, emphasized that the payments protect parishes from future lawsuits.
Abuse Survivors Criticize Parishes’ Response
While pastors reassured parishioners that their contributions would provide a fresh start, some abuse survivors found their messaging offensive. John Salveson, who was abused by a Rockville Centre priest in 1969, called the notion that individual parishes bore no responsibility “tone deaf.” He argued that the church as an institution must acknowledge its past failures. The settlement provides legal immunity to the diocese and its parishes for incidents before the bankruptcy filing.
Financial Impact and Future of the Diocese
Despite the substantial payouts, no parishes will close due to the settlement, according to a diocesan spokesman. Many drew from investment reserves rather than church donations, reassuring parishioners that day-to-day operations would not be affected. Bishop John Barres framed the resolution as an opportunity for renewal, calling for a “renewed enthusiasm” for the church’s mission heading into 2025. Survivors are expected to begin receiving payments in 2025 under the court-approved plan.
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Long Island, New York, parishes forced to pay millions to settle sex abuse claims
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