First, Skylstad's statement begins with carefully crafted, self-serving pablum: "In keeping with (Skylstad's) goal for the Diocese of Spokane to treat all victims with respect and respond to their needs for healing, the bishop, once again, on behalf of the church. . . . ‘' (Can you imagine Jesus talking like this?)

Then, to minimize the horror Ross endured, the bishop continues in lawyer-like speaking, "wishes to apologize'' for "whatever trauma he (Ross) believes occurred in his life'' at the hands of an abusive priest. Finally, to further distance himself from Fr. Joseph Sondergeld's criminal behavior, Skylstad stresses that the molestation took place "over 30 years ago.''

Through his work with our organization, Mike Ross has tirelessly reached out to others who are wounded, offering them solace and hope. He has been that caring "shepherd'' to hurting men and women, the "lost sheep'' that Christ himself was and that the Gospel calls us to help.

Mike deserves better.