MESSAGE FROM THE SISTERS OF ST. FRANCIS:

We have read the report issued by the Attorney General of Maryland which describes horrific acts of abuse by numerous members of the clergy in the Archdiocese of Baltimore over many decades. One allegation involves a sister from our congregation which took place in the 1950s. The Sister who is accused, Sister Francis Marie Yocum, passed away almost three decades ago.

The Sisters of St. Francis are distressed and shocked by the allegation against one of our congregation. Our prayers and concern are with the victim and all victims of any such occurrences. We encourage anyone who has information about the involved Sister Yocum to come forward and share their story with us. We also encourage anyone wishing to report information about an allegation of child sexual abuse to report it to law enforcement. We offer our support in the healing process however possible.

The Sisters of St. Francis are committed to the needs of others, especially those who are economically poor, marginalized, and oppressed. We are committed to spiritual and pastoral care and to being faithful to our foundress Mother Francis Bachmann’s goal of serving the people of God wherever a need exists.