The Diocese of Allentown will establish a compensation and reconciliation program to assist victims and survivors of past clergy sexual abuse.

“The diocese recognizes its responsibility to provide victims and survivors with an opportunity to share their experiences and receive compensation in a compassionate forum as one aspect of their healing and recovery,” a release from the diocese said Thursday.

Compensation determinations will be made by an administrator who is independent from the church. The administrator’s work will be overseen by an independent board.

Planning, including how the program will be substantially funded, is actively under way. A timetable for implementation and additional details will be released in the near future.

“The Diocese of Allentown deeply regrets the pain caused by the abusive actions of some members of the clergy. Compensation alone cannot repair the damage caused to those who were harmed by clergy,” the diocese said in the release.

This program will meaningfully assist in recovery and healing for victims and survivors, and for their families.

Anyone who knows of incidents of abuse, in the church or outside it, should report it to the State ChildLine at 800-932-0313, the State Attorney General’s hotline at 888-538-8541 or to local law enforcement. The Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator is available to provide assistance to anyone who, as a minor, was abused by a priest, deacon or employee or volunteer of the diocese or its parishes. Her direct line is 800-791-9209.