Detroit Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger released a pastoral message on March 11 addressing clergy sexual abuse and announcing new measures to strengthen protections in the Archdiocese of Detroit.
The message, titled “Rebuilding Trust: A Pastoral Message on Abuse, Reform, and Hope,” comes ahead of Weisenburger’s first anniversary as archbishop. The topic is significant for the local Catholic community as it outlines steps to address past abuses and prevent future harm to children and vulnerable adults.
Archbishop Weisenburger expressed “heartfelt sorrow for the evil of abuse and the profound suffering it has caused.” He said that while progress has been made, ongoing accountability, transparency, and protection remain essential priorities. “I remain firmly committed to ensuring that the protection of children and vulnerable adults is upheld as a central and enduring priority of my pastoral leadership,” he said.
The archbishop apologized to those harmed by clergy, stating, “words alone cannot heal the harm inflicted.” He added, “Taking seriously Jesus’ teaching that whatever we do to the least among us, we do to Him, I can only conclude that the crimes and misconduct you suffered were nothing short of an attack on Christ Himself. I pray that the wounds you have endured will be healed and that you will be comforted by the grace and love of Jesus.”
Weisenburger outlined several new policies including a comprehensive review of all files related to abuse allegations dating back to the early 1920s. This review was led by Father John Maksym, who heads a team with expertise in law and criminal justice. The archdiocese also introduced an archdiocesan-wide fingerprinting policy for all clergy, educators, employees, and volunteers working with children or vulnerable adults. To date, about 225 diocesan priests have been fingerprinted.
He also announced expanded funding for psychiatric and psychological care for victims so no one is denied support. Victim assistance will now be provided through Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan. Seminarians at Sacred Heart Major Seminary will receive enhanced annual training about abuse prevention.
The archdiocese continues full cooperation with an ongoing investigation by Michigan’s attorney general into how sexual abuse cases have been handled since 2018. Reports from other dioceses are already published; reports on Saginaw Diocese and Detroit are expected after investigations conclude.
In closing his message, Weisenburger thanked those who reported abuse or worked toward reform: “the overwhelming majority of clergy and religious serve faithfully and with integrity… I wish to thank them for their faithful witness, generous service, and quiet perseverance amid the pain and betrayal brought about by the sins of others.”
