TEXAS – The Diocese of Austin and the Archdiocese of San Antonio released lists of clergy credibly accused of sexual abusing minors Thursday afternoon.

• 56 names were released in connection to San Antonio clergy area
• Accused clergy goes as far back as the 1950s
• Bishop hopes to rebuild trust for the church

The release comes months after the church promised transparency and accountability. 

Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller announced the names during a Thursday presser and was emotional, as he admitted the Archdiocese did not act quickly enough on these accusations. 

Last year, Bishop Joe Vasquez, along with 15 dioceses in Texas, agreed to release the names of those who faced and in some case still face credible accusations of sexual abuse of minors.

The bishop said he believed releasing the names would bring transparency and help rebuild trust with the people of the church. In a statement from the diocese, Vasquez said he was committed to protecting children from any abuse.

On Thursday other diocese in Texas will be releasing names as well. The list is set to include accused clergy as far back as the 1950s.

The list will also be available online via the Diocese and Archdiocese websites.

Bexar County District Attorney released Joe Gonazales a statement in response:

"Our hands are tied if the law says that their cases are beyond the statute of limitations. I would hope that those individuals would avail themselves of counseling and do what they need to do to feel some closure. Unfortunately, if a case is too old we have to abide by the law. If the law prevents us from prosecuting, then we will be unable to go forward.”

Gonzales also mentioned that anything which occurred prior to September of 1987 is unlikely to be prosecuted. 

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