“On March 16, I wrote to you about the impact on our diocese of a state law (AB 218), which allowed time barred or expired claims of child sexual abuse to be filed by alleged survivors.

“Today, I am informing you, after considerable consultation and much prayer, the Roman Catholic Bishop of Oakland (RCBO) has filed for bankruptcy.

“We made the filing because we believe this process is the best way to support a compassionate and equitable outcome for survivors of abuse, while ensuring we continue to provide the essential services and support so crucial to our parishioners and communities.”

Bishop Barber's full letter, of May 8, 2023, as well as FAQs, in English and additional languages, with our response to the harm of clergy sexual abuse can be accessed below.

Read more about our Chapter 11 filing