The Official Committee of Survivors in the Diocese of Albany bankruptcy, advocating for the interests of all Survivors, will be returning to mediation with the Diocese on January 20 and 21.  Mediation is an important component of the bankruptcy process and allows the parties, with the involvement of an experienced Mediator, to explain their viewpoints and hopefully make further progress toward a settlement.  The Official Committee continues to be involved in all facets of the bankruptcy process and is committed to the best financial settlement possible for all Survivors.  The Committee knows that Survivors want resolution but also understands we need to push hard for fairness on the financial side and make sure that the Diocese puts in place the best youth protection measures possible to protect children in the future. Please note that mediation follows strict confidentiality measures.  The Official Committee will continue to update this website with any developments that may be shared publicly.  Survivors, if represented by legal counsel, should discuss with their attorneys any questions related to their individual case.  Questions about the bankruptcy process may be directed to the Committee legal professionals, Stinson LLP, via albanysurvivorteam@stinson.com.  Every message to Stunson will receive a reply.

Survivors involved with the Archdiocese of New York and Archdiocese of New Orleans have seen important developments recently.  

In New York, the Archdiocese has announced it enter a formal negotiation process with attorneys for Survivors and commit at least $300 million to compensate the 1,300 victims of sexual abuse with claims pending against the church. Additional information may be found here.  

In New Orleans, Survivors and the Archdiocese reached a settlement of $230 million, approved by the bankruptcy court, to address the claims of approximately 600 Survivors who have been a part of this bankruptcy since it was filed in May of 2020. Further information about the New Orleans case can be found here. 

Both of these developments point to the recognition that significant financial settlements are appropriate to address the harm that Survivors have endured during their lifetime.  While every bankruptcy proceeding is unique, these are positive developments for Survivors.  If you have legal representation and questions related to your case, you should direct them to your attorney.  If you have questions about the bankruptcy process in general, you may email Stinson LLP via albanysurvivorteam@stinson.com.  Every message will receive a response.

The Official Committee of Survivors in the Albany Bankruptcy has learned that Bishop Scharfenberger’s resignation has been accepted by Pope Leo, and that Rev. Mark O’Connell, currently an auxiliary bishop in the Archdiocese of Boston, has been appointed to replace him. A link to the Diocese’s press conference is below:

https://wnyt.com/top-stories/new-bishop-to-take-over-as-head-of-roman-catholic-diocese-of-albany

We will update you on further developments as they occur.

On September 10-12, 2025, 52 Survivors presented their impact statements at a hearing before the Bankruptcy Court.  Bishop Edward Scharfenberger and other Diocese representatives were also present to hear the impact statements. The Committee is grateful to the brave Survivors who shared the truth about their abuse and its effect on their lives. The Committee is also hopeful that the impact statements will increase understanding regarding the tremendous pain and challenges Survivors endured and continue to endure as a result of their difficult experiences.  At this time, no additional hearings for the presentation of impact statements have been scheduled or approved by the Court, but additional hearings may be possible if more Survivors express an interest in presenting a statement.  Please inform your attorney if you are represented and wish to make a statement.  If you are not represented and wish to speak, please contact Stinson at Albanysurvivorteam@stinson.com