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Malone releases new statement, does not address resignation calls

WBFO News File Photo

Bishop Richard Malone is not responding to calls that he resign as the clergy abuse scandal seems to worsen in the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo.

This past week, WKBW-TV reported Malone failed to take action against two priests who were accused of recent incidents of inappropriate behavior.

Saturday, Malone had a statement read during Mass at St. Mary's Church in Swormville, where one of the priests -- Fr. Robert Yetter -- was the longtime pastor. Malone said he "lost site of the harm" that can result from unwanted sexual advances by clergy against an adult.

While Malone did not address calls for his resignation, he did admit his handling of the recent claims fell short of what he said is "the standard to which we hold ourselves and each other." In the statement, Malone pledged, "We can and will do better."

One parishioner at St. Mary's told the Buffalo News that Malone's words were "meaningless." But others say they still have faith in his leadership.