Letter to Goulburn Community from Christian Brothers leader

I wanted to speak to you, the Goulburn Community, directly now that the sentencing of Brother David Standen is complete.

This has been a tragedy for all involved, not least the innocent children who suffered abuse and the effects of those actions on their lives.

Childhood should be a time of great happiness with fond memories to cherish, look back upon and draw comfort from, particularly during the hardships of adult life.

Tragically for some this did not happen.

Trust and innocence were betrayed and in their place, fear, pain and suffering took hold.

These children, now men, had every right to expect that they would be protected and they were failed.

To them I say this.

I acknowledge your hurt and I reiterate our unreserved apology for what has taken place. I hope that the conclusion of this judicial process with today’s sentencing brings some measure of justice to ease your pain.

I know that today is not the end of the journey, but another step forward on the often long path of healing. Our apology to you is enduring, as is our commitment to walk with you.

Long after the focus has shifted elsewhere, know that we will continue our efforts to try and help make whole again what was damaged long ago.

I know for some what we do will never be enough and we must accept that. Knowing that we must still continue our work to try and bring peace and healing where there is distress, pain and suffering.

Brother Peter Clinch, Province Leader (Christian Brothers Oceania Province)