San Jose, California –Catholic leaders in San Jose are working to improve transparency in regard to sexual abuse by priests within the Roman Catholic Church.

By mid-October, the names of priests in the city who is believed to have abused minors will be released.

The issue brought more attention in August. The grand jury report found that two Roman Catholic bishops in Pennsylvania helped cover up the sexual abuse of hundreds of children.

Those children were abused by more than 50 church figures across the state. That report showed to those who didn’t believe just how deep this issue goes. Unfortunately, the Church has a long and tortured history of covering up its abuses.

Pope Francis had a meeting with leaders of the American Catholic Church in Rome.

What Happened in San Jose Priest Abuse Case?

The case of sexual abuse including 12 boys at St. Martin of Tours church was in 1970 in San Jose. The 12 survivors testified about their sexual abuse by Joseph Pritchard.

One of the survivors named John Salberg said the abuse began in the second grade. The abuse then lasted for seven years.

He said even though it was 40 years ago, he could remember that day like yesterday. It took a decade for Pennsylvania grand jury to bring the issue of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church to light.

The diocese will release the names and statues of those credibly accused of abuse. After all, the Church doesn’t want to protect these vile people from justice. Releasing the names will also hopefully provide closure for other victims, especially those that haven’t come forward yet.

Actions by the diocese include three listening sessions that will seek input from parishioners and victims.

The internal investigation will be conducted by a former FBI executive. Salberg believes these actions will allow victims the opportunity to heal.