St John of God Order Abuse Cover-Up Alleged by Victims

Two victims bravely shared their stories, helping to expose an alleged cover-up of abuse by Brother Aidan Clohessy within the St John of God Order.
By Newsroom | Religion, Social Issues |

A report suggests the St John of God Order may have facilitated a cover-up of crimes committed by Brother Aidan Clohessy, a serial paedophile, allowing his abuse of vulnerable children to continue. The claims stem from an account detailing how the alleged cover-up was circumvented by the courage of two victims who came forward. One victim's testimony was crucial in identifying Clohessy and the order's alleged role in enabling his continued abuse, even after he was reportedly sent to Africa. The report emphasizes the direct impact of victims speaking out against superiors' attempts to conceal the wrongdoing.

The St John of God Order was able to cover up the crimes of serial paedophile Brother Aidan Clohessy - allowing him to keep ABUSING vulnerable children - but I was able to expose a MONSTER because of the courage of these two victims - 1

Historical Context of Abuse Allegations

Concerns regarding abuse within the St John of God Order are not new. A support group for abuse victims, Broken Rites, has spoken to numerous individuals who claim to have suffered abuse within the order. Senior Catholic leaders have also been involved in providing evidence to a royal commission addressing these issues.

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The St John of God Order was able to cover up the crimes of serial paedophile Brother Aidan Clohessy - allowing him to keep ABUSING vulnerable children - but I was able to expose a MONSTER because of the courage of these two victims - 2

The Order of St John of God

The 'Hospitaller Order of St. John of God', also known as the 'Brothers Hospitallers of St. John of God', was founded by Saint John of God in the 15th century. The order's historical mission is dedicated to nursing the poor and the sick, with its founder declared the patron saint of hospitals and the sick by Pope Leo XIII in 1886. Brothers within the order undergo specific training for their charitable works, seeking the spiritual and physical well-being of those they serve. It is important to note that this order is distinct from the 'Sisters of St John of God'.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the main allegation against the St John of God Order?
The main allegation is that the St John of God Order may have helped hide crimes committed by Brother Aidan Clohessy, a known abuser. This allowed him to continue abusing vulnerable children.
Q: How was the alleged cover-up exposed?
The alleged cover-up was reportedly exposed because two victims bravely came forward and shared their experiences. Their testimonies were key to identifying Clohessy and the order's alleged role.
Q: What is the St John of God Order?
The St John of God Order, founded in the 15th century, is a religious order dedicated to caring for the poor and sick. Its founder is the patron saint of hospitals and the sick.
Q: Are there previous concerns about abuse in this order?
Yes, concerns about abuse within the St John of God Order are not new. A support group called Broken Rites has heard from many people who claim they suffered abuse within the order.