Letter from Bishop Gainer Regarding Reorganization

February 2021 My dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, One year ago, on February 19, 2020, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg (RCDH) filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. While the Covid-19 pandemic has delayed the proceedings, we have continued to work in earnest with the Federal bankruptcy court and interested parties. As a step in this process, on February 8 and 9, the RCDH, our present and historical insurance providers, and the survivors of abuse (individually or through a committee representing their interests) met for the first mediation. This mediation process is an effort to work together to reach a consensual resolution regarding the survivor claims against the RCDH. At this time, there is little I can say as the mediation discussions are confidential. However, I am able to report that progress was made between the involved parties and that all parties intend to continue negotiations and mediation, to reach a consensual resolution that will acknowledge the harm suffered and provide for meaningful and fair compensation for survivors. As was explained at the beginning of this process, filing for reorganization was the only option to right our financial situation, especially after the significant legal and investigative costs we incurred due to the Grand Jury Subpoena and years of declining revenues. I have full confidence that at the conclusion of this process, our Diocese will have a much stronger foundation to build, and rebuild, upon. I also wish to take this opportunity to address our annual financial audit. Typically at this time of year, we would publish the results of this annual financial audit in The Catholic Witness and on our Diocesan website. Due to the ongoing bankruptcy process, we are unable to release financial statements for the fiscal year end June 30, 2020 until this process is complete. We do provide regular financial updates to the bankruptcy court and all documents related to this process can be found online at https://dm.epiq11.com/case/rcdh/info. We still have several months of reorganization efforts ahead of us. As this process continues, I encourage you to visit www.hbgdiocese.org/reorganization-information for the most up-to-date information. I humbly ask for your prayers for our Diocese as we continue this process. May God grant us every grace needed during this difficult time. May Mary, Mother of the Church and our Mother, intercede with Her Son to be our strength and support. Sincerely Yours in Christ, Most Reverend Ronald W. Gainer Bishop of Harrisburg