— In his letter of Feb. 18 to Catholics of the diocese, Bishop Loverde wrote, "We must pray for forgiveness and reconciliation, for healing and new hope, especially for the victims of this terrible abuse and for their families. In union with my brother bishops, I ask forgiveness and pledge my every effort to do what is right and good. I am hopeful that with this account of our past, together with a rigorous framework to heighten the safety of children under our care, we will emerge more deeply and steadfastly committed to the call to holiness."

— The diocese’s Policy on the Protection of Children/Young People and Prevention of Sexual Misconduct and/or Child Abuse, in place since 1991, is available at www.arlingtondiocese.org.

— Since the diocese was established in 1974, nine of the 891 diocesan and religious priests who have served in the diocese, or 1 percent, were accused of sexual abuse of minors by 11 victims.

— Of the nine priests, one was exonerated; two are deceased; one is retired without faculties; and the remaining five are no longer in ministry. They are not permitted to serve in any ministry, celebrate Mass publicly, administer the sacraments, wear clerical garb or present themselves publicly as priests.

— One permanent deacon was also accused of child sexual abuse and is no longer in ministry.

— All of the alleged incidents occurred before 1994.

— No cases are currently pending against the diocese.

— The diocese offers counseling whenever a credible allegation is made. Since the diocese was established in 1974, approximately $55,000 has gone to victim counseling and settlements. In addition, the diocese has incurred approximately $100,000 in legal fees in connection with alleged instances of sexual abuse of minors. These expenses were paid through insurance and general operating revenues of the diocese. The annual diocesan fund-raising appeal (the Bishop’s Lenten Appeal) and the capital campaign (Rooted in Faith ~ Forward in Hope) funds are received as restricted gifts and used only for the areas stated in campaign materials.