HomeAbout UsBishop Edward B. Scharfenberger

Bishop’s Response to Abuse Crisis

Bishop's Column - August 10, 2023: "Anyone wounded by the ravages sown by those in league with the Evil One, can come to the source of all true love, peace and healing, Jesus himself, in the sacramental life he offers in his Church."

Bishop's Column - June 1, 2023: “In speaking of courage, I am especially grateful, in fact, in awe of the survivors of sexual abuse that I have been graced to walk with in these latter days of my priesthood.”

Hope and Healing Mass, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Amsterdam - April 30, 2023 Bishop Edward Scharfenberger's Homily at the 10:30am Mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Click here for Homily.

Bishop's Column -April 27, 2023: Bishop Edward Scharfenberger apologizes to anyone and everyone who has in anyway suffered by the actions of one claiming to be part of our church.

Hope and Healing Mass, St. John the Baptist, Valatie - Jan. 14, 2023 - Opening statement, Bishop Edward Scharfenberger's Homily, closing statement. Click here for video

Letter to Parishioners - October 3, 2022 Bishop Edward Scharfenberger announces a series of “Hope and Healing Masses” focused on helping all who suffer from various forms of brokenness, trauma and abuse.

TV Interview - August 4, 2022 In an exclusive interview, Bishop Edward Scharfenberger responds to sex abuse suits

"I am here to listen" - August 1, 2022 Bishop Edward Scharfenberger hopes no one will have to suffer in silence, to reach out to him and have a conversation

TV Interview - July 31, 2022 Bishop Edward Scharfenberger meets with a child sex abuse survivor at the same parish where he was abused decades prior

‘I WANT WHAT’S BEST … FOR ALL SURVIVORS’ - July 13, 2022 Bishop Edward Scharfenberger explains to the Evangelist why he believes the Diocese of Albany’s draft mediation proposal, released last week, is the best course of action for victims/survivors who have filed lawsuits under the New York State Child Victims Act.

News Release - July 8, 2022 Following months of development and consultation, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany is unveiling the draft of its Victims/Survivors Compensation Plan (VSCP) which is seen as an equitable alternative to litigation or to chapter 11, a lengthier and costlier process.

News Release - June 29, 2022 Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger is reaching out to announce another path for Victims/Survivors in the Albany Roman Catholic Diocese.

Good Policy – April 13, 2022 The Evangelist reports on the Catholic Church’s response on a bill that would add clergy to the list of mandated reporters in New York State.

A Powerful Message – April 7, 2022 The Evangelist shares the message conveyed in a beautiful display at the Pastoral Center, recognizing National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Bishop’s Column – April 5, 2022: Bishop Scharfenberger’s column talks about the need for the Church to be a safe space for all, especially survivors of abuse.

Bishop’s Column March 17, 2022: Bishop Scharfenberger talks about raising expectations and trusting God in troubling times.

‘Evening of Reflection’ set for those who have been abused – October 6, 2021 The Hope and Healing Committee plans an Evening of Reflection.