Catholic Church

"By offering such a low number the diocese has re-victimized clergy sexual abuse survivors.”

The Diocese has acknowledged more than 100 of its priests as being credibly accused of abuse. Nine are currently on leave pending investigations.

“Pick your poison: either way, the Catholic Church is going to oppose it. We’re not going away. We’re not going to wait two years.”

The religious groups that brought the case said that the rules violate the First Amendment and discriminate against them.

"Pastors are trying to stay connected with their flocks, and some are doing it through mailings and through the internet, but a lot of parishes will try to live stream at least Easter Mass."

The Erie Diocese, identified by the Pennsylvania attorney general as a place where clergy sex abuse was widespread, is said to have spent nearly $12 million on its victim compensation program.

"The bishop recognizes how very hard this is for people and people will be very upset who really turn to mass for their peace, their solace, and being fulfilled spiritually."

The diocese has been under financial strain from legal fees and payouts to people its clergy and other affiliates abused over many decades.

They’re adding new plaintiffs from the Philadelphia, Altoona-Johnstown, Greensburg and Harrisburg dioceses.

“A lot of people need more time. Some people are just starting to come to grips with the abuse that happened to them, and they’re not ready.”