To the Clergy, Religious, and Laity of the Archdiocese of New Orleans

December 9, 2025

To the Clergy, Religious, and Laity of the Archdiocese of New Orleans:

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

On Monday, December 8 US Federal Bankruptcy Court Judge Meredith Grabill confirmed the Joint Plan of Reorganization in the Archdiocese of New Orleans’s Chapter 11 Reorganization case in US Bankruptcy Court. This brings to conclusion the long and often contentious court case, creates a path forward for our local church, and, very importantly is a step towards rebuilding trust with survivors of sexual abuse.

The confirmed plan establishes a settlement trust of $230 million for survivors and outlines strengthened child protection practices and greater transparency in handling allegations of abuse. These nonmonetary provisions build upon our existing safe environment efforts and reinforce our dedication to forming children and young people in a secure, faith-filled setting.

To the survivors, I again offer my most sincere prayers. I offer my gratitude to you for coming forward and being a part of a path forward for our archdiocese. I know these years have brought renewed pain and anger, which I so clearly heard in your courageous and emotional testimony. I welcome the opportunity to meet with any of you that are willing.

I would like to thank all of those who worked on this case and you - the faithful of the Archdiocese of New Orleans -  for your prayers and support during these challenging years. It is your prayers and perseverance in faith that have sustained the church, particularly our clergy, and allowed so many good and positive aspects of our faith to flourish amidst the trials. I am profoundly grateful.

As we move forward, let us remain committed to the hard work of rebuilding trust and continuing our mission to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Let us pray together for survivors and for the renewal of our Church. God is faithful.

Wishing you God’s blessings, I am,

Sincerely in Christ,
 
Most Reverend Gregory M. Aymond
Archbishop of New Orleans