The Catholic bishop of Peoria is expressing sorrow at the results of an investigation showing about 1,000 Pennsylvania children were abused over decades by 300 priests.
In a statement, Bishop Daniel Jenky said Tuesday he is also saddened and deeply disturbed by the failures of some bishops to address the crisis.
"We also stand together in offering support to those who have suffered from these horrible offenses. These crimes harm the victims, weaken many people's faith, and hurt the entire church," said Jenky.
The report showed that in many cases bishops covered up sexual abuse by priests.
In the statement, Jenky sought to distinguish the church now with the church then by noting many of the cases were before 2002.
Jenky said a close reading shows the report focuses more on crimes of years ago than on crimes of today. The bishop said Peoria Diocese personnel now undergo background checks and child safety education.
"Certainly today, the Church addresses these matters in a much better way," said Jenky.
Sexual assault survivor groups have criticized the Peoria diocese under Jenky and his predecessors for secrecy about sexual abuse cases.
Jenky said the church is doing all it can to provide a safe environment for children. Jenky said he's offering support to those who have suffered from priest sexual abuse.
