Victim impact statements continue Wednesday in the bankruptcy case against the Diocese of Buffalo.
The fourth session will take place Thursday.
Emotions ran high during the initial session of statements back in January.
The diocese filed for bankruptcy protection in 2020 regarding the claims of abuse.
A settlement agreement of more than $300 million between the diocese, its parishes and some insurance carriers has been made.
Bishop Michael Fisher said he would attend all sessions to hear the statements. He was present at the first session and listened to victims’ stories.
Fisher, in a statement, calls the statements a "long-awaited moment," and that the diocese remains committed to doing everything they can to support the victims.
"This is a long-awaited moment for those who have endured the devastating trauma of sexual abuse to speak and be heard. I will be listening intently with an empathetic heart and mind to these deeply personal accounts. It’s my hope that this opportunity provides victim-survivors a sense of justice, however painful it is for them to recount their experiences. We remain committed to doing everything we can to support their healing.”
Two additional dates have been added for victims to make statements on March 25 and 26.