STATEMENT FROM BISHOP STEPHEN BLAIRE

April 22, 2006

The Diocese of Stockton has received an allegation of sexual misconduct with a child on the part of the late Father Murty Fahy, an Oblate of St. Francis de Sales who served at St. Anne’s in Lodi from 1985 to the time of his death in 2001.  Father Murty Fahy was a native of Philadelphia and ordained to the priesthood in Wilmington, Delaware in 1958.  He taught at Salesian High School Detroit from 1958 through 1963 and at Judge Memorial High School Salt Lake City, Utah from 1963 through 1970.  In 1970 he came to the Diocese of Stockton where he taught at St. Mary’s High School until 1985.  From 1985 he served as associate pastor at St. Anne’s.

The abuse is alleged to have taken place with a student attending St. Anne’s Elementary School in the mid 1990’s.

Although Father Fahy is deceased, we have reported the allegation to law enforcement and will continue to cooperate fully with them.

In keeping with the Charter for the Protection of Children, the allegation is being fully investigated by the diocese in cooperation with the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. No other allegations of childhood sexual abuse against Father Fahy have been received by the diocese or the Oblates. We request anyone who has information regarding the allegation against Father Fahy immediately to contact Sister Barbara Thiella, the Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator at (209) 466-0636. Anyone who is a victim of sexual abuse by clergy or anyone who knows of a victim should contact Sister Barbara Thiella.

The diocese has in place in all our parishes a Safe Environment Program that will continue to provide for the safety of children. We suffer with all persons who have been hurt by child abuse and seek healing for them.

Our prayers are with all who have been hurt by child abuse.

Last Update April 24, 2006