The Gozo Diocese has said in a statement on Wednesday that, “in light of local media reports, the Gozo Diocese wishes to express its solidarity with all who are suffering.”

It said that “while respecting the course of law to establish the truth at the law courts, the Church reiterates its firm intention and total commitment to ensure that no one falls victim to sexual, moral or physical abuse.”

The Church strongly appealed to all who have experienced sexual abuse to file a report with the police.

It added that, if the abuser is in any way related to the Church establishment, the victim should contact the interdiocesan Safeguarding Commission against sexual abuse on info@safeguarding.mt.

“In full respect for the truth, the Church reminds that no one is considered guilty until the definite judgement of the Courts is pronounced,” it said.

Two Gozitan priests are being arraigned separately in the Gozo Court this morning, accused of alleged rape and child abuse.

The first, Joseph Sultana aged 84 and from Xaghra, has pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him.

A request to ban publication of the priest’s name was not upheld by the Magistrate Monica Vella. She ordered that the name of the victim must not be published.

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