Diocese confirms receiving two allegations from the 1980s

Diocese of Salt Lake City

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Salt Lake City – In response to the Jesuits West Province release, and the Jesuits Midwest Province anticipated release, of names of Jesuits with credible claims of sexual abuse of minors or vulnerable adults, the Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake City confirms receiving allegations against two Jesuit priests, Fr. Raymond Devlin who appears on the Jesuit West list, and Fr. Edward J. Konat, from the Midwest Province. The alleged incidents occurred in the 1980’s. Devlin’s actions were reported in 1990 and his faculties for priestly ministry were removed at that time. He died in 2011. Konat’s actions were reported in 2002 and his faculties were also removed. Konat left Utah in 1985 and was expelled by the Jesuits. Both incidents were reported to the Division of Child and Family Services in 2002.  

The Diocese of Salt Lake City is committed to protecting children. Sexual misconduct by church personnel is an affront to human dignity and the mission of the Church. The spiritual well-being of all victims, their families, and others in the community is of particular concern to the church.

Over the past thirty years, the Diocese has developed and implemented a safe environment program.  The Diocese has publicized standards of conduct for its priests and deacons as well as diocesan employees, volunteers, and any other church personnel in positions of trust who have regular contact with children and young people. Beginning in 1990, the Diocese implemented written policies and procedures regarding reporting and handling of sexual misconduct claims.  The updated policy reflects the mandates of the Bishops’ Charter from 2002 (https://www.dioslc.org/offices/office-of-safe-environment/documents-safe-environment/safe-environment-program-manual/21-2016-sep-manual-english-final/file )

Anyone who has been a victim of abuse or exploitation by clergy, religious or lay church personnel and has not yet reported it is encouraged to do so.  The Victim Assistance Coordinator, Sandy Growe is available to assist in making a report.  The contact number for the Victim Assistance Coordinator is (801) 328-8641, ext. 344.