Bishop da Cunha apologizes for clergy abuse in Diocese of Fall River

Bishop Edgar da Cunha apologized to the people of the Diocese of Fall River for the sexual abuse of children by clergy and the failure of Church leaders to respond appropriately.

In a letter published by the diocese, Bishop da Cunha addressed a report issued last month by the Attorney General’s Office. The report detailed historical accounts of clergy sexual abuse within the Diocese of Fall River, as well as the Diocese of Springfield and the Diocese of Worcester.

The bishop expressed sorrow to survivors and their families, noting that those seeking help often lacked the support, compassion, and justice they deserved. He stated that the Church failed to care for victims during their most vulnerable moments. Bishop da Cunha offered his apology, support, and prayers for healing to those still carrying the wounds of these incidents.