Hundreds of abuse survivors have agreed to a $246 million (£185 m) settlement from the Diocese of Rochester, New York, marking one of the largest payouts by a U.S. Catholic diocese.
The deal, which received overwhelming support from victims, could bring an end to the diocese’s six-year bankruptcy proceedings following its 2019 filing.
The settlement includes contributions from the diocese, its parishes, and insurance companies, most significantly, a $120 million (£90 m) payout from Continental Insurance Co. earlier this month.
In a statement, the diocese said it was “hopeful that the bankruptcy plan will be approved … and help to ease the hurt and suffering of the survivors".
It added: “We pray that they will know the peace of Jesus and their faith, so scarred by those who so betrayed their trust, will be restored in Our Lord who is our ultimate hope.”
U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Paul Warren is expected to approve the agreement in September.
If confirmed, it will be one of the largest abuse-related Catholic settlements in the country, second only to last year’s $323 million (£243 m) agreement in Rockville Centre and the $880 million (£663 m) payout by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.