Passionist Order (Congregation of the Passion of Jesus Christ)

The Passionist Order also formally known as the Congregation of the Passion of Jesus Christ (Latin: Congregatio Passionis Iesu Christi, C.P.) is a Catholic religious order of Pontifical Right founded by Saint Paul of the Cross. The Passionists place special emphasis on and devotion to the Passion of Jesus Christ. Professed members use the initials C.P. after their names. A known symbol of the congregation is the labeled emblem of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, surmounted by a cross and is often sewn into the clothing attire of its congregants.

Records show that the Passionist Order has been present in Australia since 1843 when four missionaries - the Italians Raimondo Vaccari of Rome, Luigi Pesciaroli of Canepina (Viterbo), Maurizio Lencioni of Lucca and the Swiss Joseph Snell established a mission on Stradbroke Island (just of the coast of Brisbane). The mission was eventually abandoned in 1846 due to its failure to convert the indigenous population to Christianity. The Passionist, however, established a more permanent presence in Australia when they arrived in Marrickville, Sydney from England and Ireland on 21st November 1887, living and setting up themselves next to the old church in Despointes Street, Marrickville.

The Passionist Order, however, like many other religious orders in Australia have also been involved in allegations of child sexual and physical abuse. According to the Royal Commission, the Congregation of the Passion has received 17 claims of abuse dating between 1950 to 2010, of which the Order has made 10 settlements/payments out of court.

Two particular clergy members who have been involved in allegations include:

• Father Daniel Lyne; and

• Brother Vincent Crawford.

The Passionist Order have received inquiries and allegations concerning the above clergy members. Brother Crawford in particular was charged by NSW Police but charges were eventually dropped due to poor health.

We invite former victims of Father Daniel Lyne, Brother Vincent Crawford or by any other clergy member of the Passionist Order to tell us confidentially what information they may have, and we will explain what options are available to help with these cases.

Call us or complete the confidential enquiry form below.