Lawrence Donald Soens

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[edit] Biography

Lawrence Donald Soens was named the fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Sioux City on June 15, 1983 by Pope John Paul II. At the time of his appointment, Msgr. Lawrence D. Soens was the pastor of St. Mary Church in Clinton, Iowa. His ordination and installation were held on August 17, 1983, at the Cathedral of the Epiphany in Sioux City. Bishop Soens retired as Bishop of Sioux City on November 28, 1998.[1] Born on August 26, 1926, he was first ordained a priest on May 6, 1950 is the Diocese of Davenport.[2]

[edit] Sexual Abuse

Bishop Soens was recently accused of abusing 3 youths in the 1960s. One claim was settled for $20K in 2004. Two more suits are pending as of May 2006. Seven new suits were filed in May 2006. One new suit with 13 plaintiffs was filed in August 2006 alleging abuse from 1959-1967. In February 2006, the Diocese of Davenport investigative panel found behavior that may have been inappropriate, but it did not appear to be sexual in nature.[3]

[edit] External links

• The Diocese of Sioux City