Tim Boyle/Getty Images(CNN) - A Roman Catholic diocese in Providence, Rhode Island, published a list of clergy members accused of sexually abusing minors.
The list, published at the end of June, contains 50 names of deacons, clergy members and priests who have been accused, along with their ages and whether they resigned, died or were removed from the ministry.
In a letter published Friday, Bishop of Providence Thomas Tobin outlined two reasons for publishing the list: a societal expectation and church members' right to know.
The list's publication comes at a tumultuous time for the Catholic Church, which is at the center of an international sex abuse scandal.
States across the country have begun investigations into the Catholic Church.