MRT Press Release - Bishop Edward Scharfenberger, apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Buffalo and bishop of Albany, is scheduled to attend the Movement to Restore Trust (MRT) symposium at Canisius College's Montante Cultural Center on Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. Appointed to lead the Buffalo Diocese on Dec. 4 by Pope Francis, Bishop Scharfenberger will deliver opening remarks.  "This will be my first public event in the Diocese of Buffalo, and I want to use it as an opportunity to listen," Bishop Scharfenberger said.  "I want to hear from abuse victims, the laity, priests, deacons and religious as I begin my ministry in Buffalo.

The "MRT Path Forward Symposium" will provide an opportunity for a facilitated conversation on two key topics:  what desired qualities the laity would like to see in the next bishop of the Diocese of Buffalo and how parishes might discuss and develop a reform agenda at the parish level.

MRT was formed one year ago in the wake of the clergy abuse crisis.  The first symposium, held in November 2018, inspired a respectful dialogue on what has been done and must be done to protect the vulnerable, hold Church leaders accountable, and begin to reform, renew, and heal the Church in the Diocese of Buffalo. The symposium will be streamed live on the MRT website: movementtorestoretrust.org

Media are welcome to attend and cover the symposium.  Space will be reserved in the rear of the Montante Cultural Center along with audio hookups.  MRT Organizing Committee members will be available for interviews after the symposium.