Mahony agrees to pay $60 million

The Los Angeles archdiocese just announced the first settlement of claims alleging sexual abuse by clergy here. It covers 45 out of 562 pending claims, the LAT says, reporting a phone interview with Cardinal Roger Mahony: "This is very important for us. This is a major effort at healing and reconciliation." Well, there seems to be a long way to go, though Mahony said he gave personal apologies to victims of abuse this fall. Ray Boucher, the lead plaintiff's attorney, told AP the settlement involved misconduct by 22 priests.