“Today, in conjunction with the arraignment of Fr. Michael Miller, the State of Connecticut unsealed the arrest affidavit detailing the information underlying the criminal charges brought against Fr. Miller. The Archdiocese of Hartford and the Franciscan Friars Conventual acknowledge the gravity of the charges and facts disclosed today, and condone neither. We detest any actions that would hurt God’s children. It is important for the public to know that the Archdiocese is committed to keeping children safe through efforts like the “Safe Environment Program” which requires background checks for all personnel who have regular contact with children and young people and includes Virtus training on sexual awareness for all such personnel, and seminars. Likewise, the Franciscan Order requires all of its friars to regularly participate in Praesidium training programs, which conform to the child protection standards of the Conference of Major Superiors of Men (CMSM) in the United States.

Once again, we extend our sincere sympathies to the alleged victim and offer our prayers for them and all who have suffered the effects of sexual abuse in our society, the parish community of St. Paul and for Fr. Miller, who will never return to ministry if found guilty of these charges.”