BUFFALO, NY (WBFO) - Bishop Richard Malone is responding to the news conference held by whistleblower Siobhan O'Connor, who released diocesan documents to authorities and the media about the handling of sexual abuse victims.
In a statement released late Tuesday, Malone said he "is stunned and dismayed at the comments" of O’Connor earlier in the day. Malone said "her comments directly contradict her comments to him while she worked at the Chancery and even after she left."
"In fact, her prior, written communications to the Bishop demonstrate her complete admiration for the Bishop and his efforts to lead the Diocese. Her comments now are plainly and embarrassingly contradictory. Here are her actual email communications with the Bishop and others at the Chancery that she now criticizes.
- "August 21, 2018
“I’ve missed you and everyone at the Catholic Center very much! … Please know that I would always be willing to come back and assist in any way…
“I will always be deeply grateful to have worked with you Bishop…In truly countless ways you have inspired and edified me. I am the better for having known and worked with you…May Our Lord richly bless you for all that you do for Him and for His Church!
- "August 14, 2018
“Many thanks for your very kind and supportive message…Thank you for reminding me of Lumen Gentium’s call for lay discipleship amidst our temporal pursuits…Glad to be working for a family and a company that respects and appreciates you and the Diocese.” (meaning new job)
- "August 13, 2018
“You’re most welcome, Bishop – it does my Chancery heart good to be able to help you in these ways. I trust that the…job will be a good thing for me long term, but this short-term transition is quite painful! I truly missed you and the Chancery today!
- "August 9, 2018
“How I will miss you all! Through tumultuous times and many memorable moments, it has been my pleasure to work with you in various capacities.
“I must thank Bishop Malone without whom none of my Catholic Center experiences would have been possible! Bishop – it has been a privilege to work by your side as you shepherd our diocese.
- "March, 2016
”You (Bishop Malone) have maintained that heartfelt compassion and concern especially for those most in need…I simply cannot overemphasize how blessed our diocese is to have you as our shepherd …
"Thank you for helping me become a better person through your example.”