ATLANTA—Archbishop Gregory J. Hartmayer, OFM Conv., of Atlanta, issued the following statement regarding the release of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia (PAC) report on the review of files related to clergy abuse in the Catholic Church in Georgia:

“Let me begin by saying clearly that any abuse perpetrated by priests, religious brothers or sisters, volunteers or employees of the Catholic Church is unacceptable. It cannot and will not be tolerated. This archdiocese will not protect abusers and we will not allow them to have access to our communities.

The report released today by the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council (PAC) represents a voluntary effort to be transparent about what happened in the past in hopes of moving forward with the healing process. Drastic changes have happened within the church in the last 20 years. We have worked hard to better understand and prevent abuse from ever happening again. We will not waver from the zero-tolerance policy currently in place.

I have loved my life as a priest, pastor, educator and bishop. When I hear the stories of the deep hurt caused by other priests, volunteers or employees, I feel a deep grief and shame. If you have been hurt by the church because of abuse, whether you are a direct survivor or someone who feels betrayed by the actions from the past, I am truly sorry for your pain. Please know that I am committed to a safe and transparent Church.”