June 1, 2016 – Excerpted from Put Out Into the Deep, Bishop DiMarzio’s column in The Tablet:

My dear brothers and sisters in the Lord,

Since the national clergy abuse scandal erupted in 2002, the Diocese of Brooklyn has not wavered in its commitment to protect children and assist victims of past abuse. Some members of the clergy did terrible things and hurt innocent people. We want to support, pray for, and help all victims heal, while ensuring children in our community are never hurt again.

To this end, the Church has implemented significant changes including the enforcement of a zero tolerance policy under which any cleric with a proven allegation is barred from ministry. We have established a reporting system that ensures allegations go directly to civil authorities. We conduct quarterly background checks on all employees and volunteers.

We pay several hundred thousand dollars annually to provide independent therapy and support services for all who come forward. And every year, we hold a Mass of Hope and Healing for survivors of abuse.

Read the full text of the Bishop’s column on The Tablet website.