We want to bring to your attention a matter involving abuse allegations against liturgical musician and composer David Haas. Haas resides in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. The archdiocese has reported more than 40 allegations from women claiming unwanted sexual advances by Haas dating back to the late 1970s.
As such, Archbishop Bernard Hebda has decided that David Haas may not give presentations at workshops, concerts, or similar events hosted by the archdiocese, parishes, Catholic schools, or other Catholic institutions in the archdiocese. Likewise, the archdiocese will not use Haas’ compositions at archdiocesan Masses and other archdiocesan events. Also, the archbishop has encouraged pastors, principals, and leaders of other Catholic institutions to consider the sensitivities involved with using Haas’ music in liturgies or other parish or school events, and to take appropriate steps to fully support those who have been harmed by sexual assault or abuse.
A statement from the Archdioceses of Saint Paul and Minneapolis says, “The Haas matter illustrates the challenges of responding to allegations of inappropriate behavior by lay persons who work with Catholic groups, especially when they are self-employed. We are committed to supporting anyone who has been harmed by persons of influence, prominence or power in our communities. At the same time, we recognize the importance of having a fair and appropriate forum that provides due process for those who have been accused.
However, the complaints about Haas are particularly concerning since they involve offenses against the dignity of the human person and are alleged to have occurred at Catholic events. We are committed to safe environments for all. We offer our support for those who have been harmed to come forward.”
This information is being shared with you in the interest of accountability and transparency, and so that it may assist you in making decisions as you are called upon to do so regarding questions about using music produced by Haas in your liturgies.
At the diocesan level in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, pending the outcome of legal proceedings we are suspending the use of Haas’ music at all diocesan events. Also, the Diocese of Pittsburgh will not permit David Haas to give presentations at workshops, concerts, or similar events hosted by the diocese, parishes, Catholic Schools, or other Catholic institutions in our diocese.
The Diocese of Pittsburgh is committed to promoting and maintaining safe environments. As always, if you have information of possible criminal behavior, we encourage you to contact law enforcement. If you have concerns about improper conduct at a parish or school, please report those concerns to the parish, school, or the Diocese of Pittsburgh Office of Protection of Children, Youth, and Vulnerable Adults at 412-456-3093 or toll free at 1-888-808-1235.
As such, Archbishop Bernard Hebda has decided that David Haas may not give presentations at workshops, concerts, or similar events hosted by the archdiocese, parishes, Catholic schools, or other Catholic institutions in the archdiocese. Likewise, the archdiocese will not use Haas’ compositions at archdiocesan Masses and other archdiocesan events. Also, the archbishop has encouraged pastors, principals, and leaders of other Catholic institutions to consider the sensitivities involved with using Haas’ music in liturgies or other parish or school events, and to take appropriate steps to fully support those who have been harmed by sexual assault or abuse.
A statement from the Archdioceses of Saint Paul and Minneapolis says, “The Haas matter illustrates the challenges of responding to allegations of inappropriate behavior by lay persons who work with Catholic groups, especially when they are self-employed. We are committed to supporting anyone who has been harmed by persons of influence, prominence or power in our communities. At the same time, we recognize the importance of having a fair and appropriate forum that provides due process for those who have been accused.
However, the complaints about Haas are particularly concerning since they involve offenses against the dignity of the human person and are alleged to have occurred at Catholic events. We are committed to safe environments for all. We offer our support for those who have been harmed to come forward.”
This information is being shared with you in the interest of accountability and transparency, and so that it may assist you in making decisions as you are called upon to do so regarding questions about using music produced by Haas in your liturgies.
At the diocesan level in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, pending the outcome of legal proceedings we are suspending the use of Haas’ music at all diocesan events. Also, the Diocese of Pittsburgh will not permit David Haas to give presentations at workshops, concerts, or similar events hosted by the diocese, parishes, Catholic Schools, or other Catholic institutions in our diocese.
The Diocese of Pittsburgh is committed to promoting and maintaining safe environments. As always, if you have information of possible criminal behavior, we encourage you to contact law enforcement. If you have concerns about improper conduct at a parish or school, please report those concerns to the parish, school, or the Diocese of Pittsburgh Office of Protection of Children, Youth, and Vulnerable Adults at 412-456-3093 or toll free at 1-888-808-1235.
