The Most Reverend Edgar da Cunha, Bishop of the Diocese of Fall River, sat down with us this week for an update on Diocesan activities.
It was announced this week that allegations of sexual abuse against three suspended Diocesan priests have been deemed credible and all three will not be allowed to return to the ministry.
Father James F. Buckley, Father Edward J. Byington, and Father Richard E. Degagne have been placed on the list of “Credibly Accused” clergy after a lengthy investigation by the Diocese’s Ministerial Review Board. All three priests have denied the allegations. Buckley and Byington are retired while Degagne last served as pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in Easton.
Bishop da Cunha says anyone who feels they may have suffered abuse at the hands of the clergy should feel comfortable coming forward.
As the Diocese gets ready to celebrate the Christmas season, the Bishop says local parishes are slowly returning to normal, with an eye toward safety.
Along with growing congregations comes financial stability.
Despite continued uncertainty, the Bishop has a hopeful message for the faithful this Christmas season.
Comments are closed.