ERIE, Pa. (EYT) — Catholic officials are continuing to encourage those who may have endured sexual abuse, but remained silent, to come forward as the church seeks to heal from the most recent round of abuse scandals that have plagued the institution.

(PHOTO: Bishop Lawrence T. Persico of the Erie Diocese.)

“This is a very difficult time for the Catholic Church,” Bishop Lawrence T. Persico of the Erie Diocese said, “but, we must face the truth. In collaboration with law enforcement, victims are finding their voice and helping us to ensure we are living out the principles we proclaim.”

“The Diocese of Erie, in collaboration with its independent investigators at the Pittsburgh-based K&L Gates law firm, will continue investigating all allegations brought forth.”

In the wake of the release of the findings of a