Message from the Bishop

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

The reality of sexual abuse of children by clergy and others in our Church has caused deep suffering for survivors, families, and our wider community. With you, I grieve these wounds, and I ask the Lord to bring light where there has been darkness, comfort where there has been pain, and justice where there has been sin. I reaffirm our commitment to truth, accountability, and healing. United with our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, and my brother bishops throughout the world, I offer my heartfelt apology and ask forgiveness for the harm endured, entrusting all who suffer to the mercy and care of Christ.

As the Shepherd of this Diocese, I am steadfast in doing everything possible to protect the vulnerable, to support those who have been harmed, and to strengthen communities where trust can be renewed and faith can be lived in peace. Even amid the pain of these truths, I believe the Lord is calling us to become a more vigilant, compassionate, and faithful Church—one that safeguards every person and honors the dignity of each life. I will continue working tirelessly to ensure that our parishes, schools, and every entity connected to our Diocese are safe, life-giving, and holy environments for all. It is my hope that this section of our website will be a clear and welcoming resource—offering transparency, support, and practical help, and encouraging all of us to walk together toward healing.

For decades, our Diocese has worked diligently to protect all people—most especially children, young people, and vulnerable adults—and we remain committed to strengthening these efforts. In a spirit of transparency and care, I want to highlight several safeguards already in place: an independent Review Board of professionals from our community to advise the Bishop when sexual abuse is alleged; mandatory background checks and Safe Environment training programs for more than 25,000 clerics, educators, employees, and volunteers; Circles of Care curriculum and education programs in our schools; and clear codes of conduct. Training and background checks are renewed every three years.

In a spirit of accountability and hope, I renew my pledge to advance these initiatives and to keep strengthening a culture of safeguarding throughout our Diocese. I remain committed to the guiding principles established in the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, which the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops adopted in 2002 and most recently updated in 2018:

• To respond promptly to all allegations of sexual abuse where there is reasonable belief that abuse has occurred;
• To remove ministerial privileges from the alleged offender promptly and refer him for appropriate medical evaluation and intervention if such an allegation is supported by sufficient evidence;
• To comply with the obligations of civil law for reporting an incident and cooperating fully with any official investigation;
• To deal as openly as possible with members of the community within the confines of respect for the privacy of all individuals involved.

I pray with all my heart that anyone who has been harmed by someone in a position of trust and authority may find the spiritual and emotional healing they deserve. Please know this: you are not alone, and you are beloved. Our Diocese is committed to listening with compassion, supporting you, and helping you connect with the care and resources you need.

With gratitude for your faith and perseverance, and assuring you of my continued prayers, I remain,

Sincerely yours in Christ,

The Most Reverend John S. Bonnici

Bishop of Rochester

Diocese of Rochester Safe Environment Efforts

Diocesan Office of Safe Environment

• Abuse Prevention Remains Highest Priority