18 Nov Mark Rivera Hearing on Verdict Rescheduled

Dear Upper Midwest Diocese,

Due to the judge’s unavailability today, the hearing to announce the verdict on Mark Rivera’s criminal bench trial was continued. It was rescheduled for Thursday, December 15 at 11 a.m., in-person in courtroom 319.

Mark was first arrested in 2019 for nine counts of sexual assault and abuse of a child who is his goddaughter. Since then, other survivors have come forward, alleging grooming, child sexual assault, and rape.

This further delay in a very lengthy court process is difficult for many to hear. I grieve deeply with all survivors and their loved ones, as well as the many in our midst who have suffered from the destructive sin of sexual abuse in other situations.

Please join me in praying for the Lord’s physical, spiritual, and emotional healing for survivors, and for all involved to receive his redemptive power and love. We continue to place trust in the Lord of heaven and earth for true justice and restoration that only he can bring.

Yours in Christ, 

+Stewart 

Bishop Stewart Ruch III