CLERGY ABUSE STATEMENMT

On Nov. 2, 2018, the Archbishop of New Orleans released the names of clerics who had allegations of sexual abuse against minors. Saint Joseph Abbey fully supports the Archbishop of New Orleans in this decision.

Saint Joseph Abbey is saddened by the behavior of those accused and extends its deepest apology to any person who has been a victim of sexual abuse by a member of our community.

Saint Joseph Abbey has received allegations against four clerics. The allegations against these individuals involve incidents occurring more than 50 years ago.

Father Jerome Ducote is alleged to have abused a minor in the early 1960’s. The allegation was reported in 2002. He was born on October 3, 1929, ordained to the priesthood on August 3, 1954, left the monastery in 1969, and was dispensed from the priesthood in 1970. He died on August 28, 2006. He had internal assignments at Saint Joseph Abbey.

Father Justin Faler is alleged to have abused two minors in the late 1950’s. The allegations were reported in 2002 and 2006. He was born on August 1, 1919, ordained to the priesthood on June 2, 1945, and died on April 11, 1979. In addition to internal assignments at Saint Joseph Abbey, he had pastoral assignments at Annunciation in Bogalusa, St. Benedict in St. Benedict, St. Christopher in Metairie, and St. Jane de Chantal in Abita Springs.

Father Gerald Hindman is alleged to have abused a minor in the early 1960’s. The allegation was reported in 2004. He was born on November 17, 1920, ordained to the priesthood on June 2, 1945, and died on April 28, 1999. In addition to internal assignments at Saint Joseph Abbey, he had pastoral assignments at the Metropolitan Tribunal of New Orleans and as Chaplain at St. Paul’s High School.

Father Anthony Tassin is alleged to have abused a minor in early 1960’s. The allegation was reported in 2006. He was born on January 14, 1925, ordained to the priesthood on May 29, 1950, left the monastery in 1969, and was dispensed from the priesthood in 1971. He died on July 26, 2012. He had internal assignments at Saint Joseph Abbey.

Saint Joseph Abbey adheres to State and Federal statutes related to the protection of minors. It is the policy of the Abbey to report any allegation of sexual abuse of minors to local law enforcement and to cooperate fully in any follow-up investigation. Furthermore, the Abbey adheres to the 2002 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People,” a comprehensive act of procedures for addressing allegations of abuse of minors as well as best practices for reconciliation, healing, accountability, and prevention of future acts of abuse. Saint Joseph Abbey provides support for victims to receive professional counseling in the healing process.

To reinforce our commitment with the protection of minors, Saint Joseph Abbey is currently undergoing the comprehensive process to become accredited by Praesidium. Praesidium is a nationally recognized, independent organization that specializes in the protection of children, youth and vulnerable adults. Praesidium’s services are also provided to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, the YMCA, and other prominent institutions. The process for accreditation with Praesidium is rigorous and confirms that the Institute has been reviewed by an independent team of specialists from Praesidium and meets or exceed all Standards for Accreditation, which represent the highest standards in abuse prevention and child protection.

Saint Joseph Abbey is committed to healing for anyone who has suffered abuse because of the actions of clerics and religious, and we take the report of any abuse seriously. We encourage anyone who has experienced sexual abuse by a member of Saint Joseph Abbey to contact Ms. Carla Graves, our Victim’s Assistance Coordinator, at 985-867-2286 and to report the abuse to local law enforcement.