Judge rules against Portland diocese, allows childhood abuse lawsuits to move forward

Superior Justice Thomas McKeon gave the diocese 21 days to appeal his decision to uphold a law that allows Mainers with previously expired claims of child sexual abuse to sue their alleged abusers.

Diocese Catholic youth to hold ‘Souper’ Bowl of Caring Feb. 11, 12

Court hears arguments in diocese’s constitutional challenge

In a case expected to reach Maine's high court, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland argues that a 2021 law that removed the statute of limitations on civil claims of childhood sexual abuse is unconstitutional.

Our View: Portland diocese displays a brazen lack of empathy

Attempts to block legal recourse for people in pain and anguish amount to retraumatizing secondary abuse.

The Maine Millennial: Who tells the church what it must do in order to be forgiven? 

I hope survivors sue the collar off the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland and others.

Diocese clears priest of abuse allegations, assigns him to Auburn parish

The Rev. Robert Vaillancourt spent roughly one year on administrative leave while church officials investigated allegations of sexual abuse in the 1980s. The diocese said in July that these allegations have not been substantiated.

Bishop Deeley calls proposal to allow abortions late in pregnancy ‘beyond troubling’

While the leader of Maine's Catholics is vocal in his opposition to Gov. Mills' bill, other religious leaders are divided.

Catholic parishes collect new toys, clothes for children, teens

Timeline of alleged abuse

Thirteen lawsuits have been filed against the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland so far this year, all alleging the church failed to stop priests and other employees from sexually abusing children. The complaints lay out a timeline of abuse, much of which the church has acknowledged, that spans decades. 

Portland Diocese observes slavery, human trafficking prevention month

The diocese offers outreach resources, online education, and dates to remember.