Clergy

Lutheran Clergy Push Back Against Controversial Law Targeting Immigrant Sanctuary Efforts

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Nashville, Tennessee — Lutheran clergy in the state are seeking to temporarily halt the enforcement of a new law that criminalizes assisting undocumented immigrants. The law, which was recently enacted, has raised concerns among religious leaders who argue it contradicts their mission of compassion and care for vulnerable populations. The new legislation, signed into effect earlier this month, imposes penalties on individuals who “harbor” undocumented immigrants, which includes providing shelter, food, or other forms of assistance. Many clergy members believe that the law could discourage people from seeking help during emergencies, potentially leading to detrimental … Read more

Tragic Delays: Survivors of Clergy Abuse Face Justice Denied as Bankruptcy Courts Drag On

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Rochester, New York — The story of Kevin Higley reflects the profound impact of unresolved trauma as he became one of many survivors pushing for justice against the Diocese of Rochester. Higley, who died in 2022, vowed to protect future victims of sexual abuse after coming forward with his own horrific experience as a child. His wife, Natalie, recalls their first meeting decades ago when he disclosed the abuse he suffered by a priest during his youth, an ordeal that haunted him throughout their years together. The legal battle surrounding the diocese has become increasingly … Read more

New Mexico Judge’s Ruling in Clergy Abuse Case Sparks Legal and Linguistic Concerns

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Santa Fe, New Mexico – A recent ruling by a bankruptcy judge in New Mexico has highlighted the complexities involved in enforcing legal agreements in church bankruptcies concerning clergy sex abuse claims. This summer, Judge David Thuma denied a motion brought by Mela LaJeunesse, a claimant in the bankruptcy case involving the Archdiocese of Santa Fe, setting a precedent loaded with potential implications for similar cases nationwide. In June 2021, LaJeunesse’s attorney argued before the court that the Archdiocese was obligated under its reorganization plan to update a list of clergy accused of abuse by … Read more

Former Pittsburgh Steelers Player’s Ligonier Township Estate Sold as Personal Home, Dashing Hopes for Clergy Retreat Center

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Ligonier Township, located in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, saw the sale of a 133-acre estate previously owned by a former Pittsburgh Steelers player. The property, which was intended to be a retreat center for clergy and pastors, was purchased by a former Pittsburgh attorney who plans to use it as his personal home. The estate was sold for $3.76 million to Antonio “Tony” and Amy Dias of Miami in November. Tony Dias, a Wilkinsburg native who now practices law in Miami, expressed his fondness for the town of Ligonier and the property itself. According to Dias, … Read more