Press Statement

As Archbishop of Nassau, I wish to make it absolutely clear that I would never tolerate any abusive behaviour, sexual or otherwise, in this Archdiocese.

The Benedictines (Order of St. Benedict) had a long and distinguished association with The Bahamas which extended over a period of 120 years. They have done a tremendous amount of good for the religious and social development of this community, particularly in education.

It is most unfortunate that there are some members of their Order against whom allegations of sexual abuse have arisen. This casts aspersions on their colleagues, the vast majority of whom were men of excellent character and exemplary virtue.

This is a sad development. Yet, I remain hopeful and prayerful that all the necessary healing and reconciliation can be achieved.

To my knowledge, at the present time there is no one in ministry or in any service of this Archdiocese against whom any allegations of sexual abuse exist.

I am thoroughly committed to maintaining safe environments for children and vulnerable adults in our community. In support of this, we have launched, here in the Archdiocese, the Virtus Program for the Protection of God’s Children.