The Lists are More Than Just Names

The lists continue to be released:

Diocese of Winona Release Their List of 14 Priests Accused of Sexually Abusing Minors

Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis Release Their List of 34 Priests Accused of Sexually Abusing Minors

Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis Release 9 More Names

The Diocese of St Cloud Release Their List of 33 Priests Accused of Sexually Abusing Minors

St. John’s Abbey Release Their List of 18 Monks and Priests Accused of Sexually Abusing Minors

The Diocese of Duluth Release Their List of 17 Priests Accused of Sexually Abusing Minors

The Diocese of Crookston Release Their List of 6 Priests Accused of Sexually Abusing Minors

Crosiers Release Their List of 19 Priests Credibly Accused of Sexually Abusing Minors

But it is important to remember that these lists are  not just old names.  They are lists of pedophiles who have connected to the many individuals who are now survivors.  They have suffered in silence and have always wondered if they would be believed.

They are lists that allow parishioners to find out who was in their parish and what was known at the time of transfers.  To find out why transfers were done.

They will allow for justice for those who until now have been denied the right to be protected.   Simply, the real benefit of the Child Victims Act.

Then there is the true benefit of all of the disclosure.  It is a clear indication that society is done with this type of problem.  That there is no more protecting and hiding.  That from here on out,  it should be clear that any pedophile has to be exposed and brought to justice right away.  There will be no more hidden lists or files.  That those who have in the past taken part in the hiding will not ever be tolerated again.

The releases are about protecting future children and getting the names who are still around and active in society out to those who would know.  Providing for ways for survivors to come forward,  so that the club of exposure can be used against the predator and not the survivor. This is the true public good that all of this bloodletting is about.

As litigation continues, there are going to be more disclosures.   Some of which may be so fresh that it will involve battles which will be fought by well-meaning people.   However,  this has to happen to get to the very bottom of this very dark hole of secrets.

Abuse of children and the continued silence by the offenders needs to be prevented. If you suffered, saw, or suspected such events, it is important to know that there is help out there.