Statement Regarding the McCarrick Report

A Message from Archbishop Michael Jackels:

10 November 2020

Pope Francis did a good thing: investigating who knew what regarding accusations against Theodore McCarrick, when they knew it, and their response to that knowledge.

It is a long report, which signifies that it is thorough, but which also means that it will take time to read through it, and to translate the information into corrective action.

This report airs the dirtiest of dirty laundry. Victims may feel their wounds reopened. Catholics will suffer shame. Others may hold us in derision. Who can blame them?

But it had to be done. To right the Ship of Church in the storm-tossed waves of clergy sexual abuse calls for accountability, promising protection, and helping victims to heal.

This is one more telling of the sad story of humanity caving in to the charms of pride, greed, and lust for power or pleasure, sinning against God, and harming others.

To victims I say, once again, I am sorry, so sorry, and that we are mending our ways to ensure a safe environment for all to participate at Church activities.

To clergy (including myself) and all in Church ministry I say, once again, shield your heart with the word of Jesus:

Be the last of all, the servant of all; to be exalted, humble yourself; to receive, give; do this – forgiveness, service, self-sacrifice – in memory of me, says Jesus.

God, have mercy on us, and help us.

Archbishop Michael Jackels
Archbishop of Dubuque