Chatham author’s first novel delves into child sexual abuse by clergy
Windsor Star - October 30, 2024
Chatham, ON - It’s been nearly two decades since news came to light about young girls being sexually assaulted by a Catholic priest while serving at churches in Southwestern Ontario and the cover-up by the church, but Renée D. Bondy hasn’t forgotten about it.
The Chatham woman’s first novel [non]disclosure, published by Second Story Press, tells the story of a young girl who was abused by a Catholic priest. Like many victims, she kept a dark secret for years before finding her voice.
Windsor Star - May 1, 2026 Windsor, ON - A woman from the Windsor area is suing the Roman Catholic Diocese of London, alleging a priest sexually abused her as a child in 1979–80, leading to lifelong emotional and psychological harm. The lawsuit adds to past abuse allegations against the diocese and underscores both the lasting impact of childhood abuse and the challenges survivors face in reporting it years later.
Bishop Accountability - April 25, 2026 St.John's, NF - The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will contribute $45.8 million toward a $121 million settlement for survivors abused at Catholic-run institutions, including Mount Cashel Orphanage. The payment helps cover compensation the bankrupt archdiocese cannot fully fund, following decades of legal battles and a 2021 Supreme Court ruling holding the Church liable, though a funding shortfall remains.