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Albany’s Bishop Mark O’Connell is reflecting on his new role.
O’Connell was recently installed as the 11th bishop of Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany, and presided over his first Mass in his new post Sunday in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Albany.
O’Connell had served as auxiliary bishop in the Boston Archdiocese since 2016.
He said he’s been briefed on the ongoing Saint Clare’s pension trial, but he wouldn’t comment on it until it’s over. He, however, acknowledged the difficulty of the situation.
O’Connell succeeded Edward Scharfenberger, who submitted his retirement letter at age 75 as required by canon law. Under Scharfenberger, the Diocese filed for bankruptcy in 2023. Hundreds of cases have been filed against the diocese alleging sexual abuse under the Child Victims Act.
O’Connell addressed the ongoing sexual abuse scandal.
"The priorities so far now are learning and listening. Certainly, I’m not going to come up with some sort of pastoral plan or goals without listening," he said.
Albany bishop discusses issues facing diocese – Spectrum News
