VICAR FOR CLERGY ARCHDIOCESE oF New York ‘THE FOLLOWING LETTER IS FROM BISHOP GERALD WALSH, VICAR FOR CLERGY FOR THE ARCHDIOCESE. January 24-25, 2015 Dear Friends in the Lord: I write to share some upsetting news. While I wish I did not have to be the bearer of bad news, you have told us that you appreciate receiving such information from us directly. The archdiocese has received a credible allegation that, approximately 30 years ago, Father Peter Kihm, committed acts of sexual abuse of a minor. Father Kihm served here at Our Lady of Lourdes High School from 1987-1992. The allegation has not yet been substantiated, and Father Kihm has denied the allegation, but in keeping with the policy and practice of the archdiocese, and in conformity with the promises we bishops made to you in the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Father Kihm has been asked to leave the parish and his ability to publicly function as a priest has been suspended, at least until the matter is resolved. Father Kihm is currently in a supervised setting while he undergoes a thorough evaluation and risk assessment. Under our policy, these allegations have been reported to the district attorney for Dutchess County, and the archdiocese will cooperate in any investigations that may ensue. If any of you have concerns or suspicions regarding Father Kihm, we strongly urge you to contact Assistant District Attorney Kristine Whelan of the Dutchess County District Attorney's office directly and without delay at (845) 486-2300. The archdiocese will follow its policy in dealing with priests accused of sexual abuse, including having the entire matter studied and evaluated by our archdiocesan lay professional review board. If we learn additional information concerning Father Kihm, we will share it with you. The protection of our children is one of our highest priorities, and, the great strides made by the Catholic Church throughout the country and around the world, in dealing with this serious crime and sin, have been noted by outside experts. However, even a single act of abuse is too many, and we will remain vigilant in our efforts to do all that we can to protect our children. I ask that you keep in your prayers all those affected, in particular all victim/survivors of sexual abuse. Faithfully, + Hecash Wate Most Reverend Gerald T. Walsh Vicar for Clergy 1011 First AVENUE, New York, NY 10022 212-371-1000 x2922—_vicarforclergy@arehny.org_——_Fax:646-794-2987