List of alleged abusers released by church

A report released on Monday listed three local priests accused of sexually abusing children during their time at Creighton Prep.

The list was sent out by the Midwest Province of Jesuits amidst increasing pressure on the Catholic Church to address its child sex abuse crisis.

Two of the priests listed had already been named in November. They were Father Willard Dessel and Father Daniel Kenney whose incidents of abuse occurred in the 70's and 80's.

The additional name was that of Father Thomas Haller, who served at the school from 1955 to 1980. The abuse did not involve a Prep student in this case.

The president of the Survivors Network said the release of the names is just the beginning of understanding the number of children abused by the priests.

"Some people bury their memories for decades. I did not remember some of my abuse for 30 years. Some for 50 years. So, coming forward is a difficult kind of process, but when there's public disclosure, it does provide a step toward healing," Tim Lennon said.

A local expert on the prevention of child abuse in faith organizations said listing names helps victims feel less alone and makes other victims more likely to come forward.

"Too many of our faith communities are in denial about it, and we're in denial. We're not in a position to protect kids, and so by naming individuals, we help make that real," Dr. Jeanette Harder said.

When asked for a comment, Creighton Prep referred 6 News to the Midwest Province.

There has been no response to the questions specific to Prep yet, but they are encouraging victims to come forward and contact the institution where they were abused.

The full document is attached to this story.