Diocese: Timlin’s actions, status under review

SCRANTON — The Diocese of Scranton on Friday afternoon released the following statement regarding Bishop Emeritus James C. Timlin, 91, whose name figured prominently in the Pennsylvania Grand Jury report on clergy sex abuse in six dioceses, which was made public on Tuesday:

Following the release of the Grand Jury report, Bishop Bambera has instructed the Diocese’s Independent Review Board to conduct a formal assessment of Bishop Emeritus James Timlin’s handling of previous allegations of abuse during his time as the head of the Diocese of Scranton and to make recommendations as to his role in the Diocese moving forward. This review process has already begun and the recommendations are expected no later than August 31, 2018. Simultaneously, Bishop Bambera has referred the matter to the Holy See, which has authority over Bishop Timlin’s canonical status.

This is consistent with how the Diocese handles all similar allegations. As in all cases, while these matters are under review, Bishop Timlin is not authorized to represent the Diocese of Scranton in any public events, liturgical or otherwise.

Check back for updates, and see Saturday’s Times Leader for more.

Bishop Emeritus James Timlin gives a sermon at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Scranton during a 2016 Mass in his honor.

https://www.timesleader.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/web1_timlin03-1.jpg.optimal.jpgBishop Emeritus James Timlin gives a sermon at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Scranton during a 2016 Mass in his honor. Times Leader file