N.Y. cardinal: Abuse 'will never be repeated'

NEW ROCHELLE, New York (CNN) -- With criticism growing over how Catholic leaders have handled cases of sexually abusive priests, Cardinal Edward Egan vowed Thursday that he is committed "to the protection of our children."

Speaking at a rededication ceremony for a library at The College of New Rochelle, a Catholic liberal arts school, Egan spoke briefly about the controversy.

"The tragedy about which we are learning each day will not continue, will never be repeated -- that is my prayer," he said.

"Our children are our treasure," he added later. "We will protect them and no one will be allowed to harm them."

Egan has come under fire by critics who said he mishandled cases of molestation by priests when he was bishop of Bridgeport, Connecticut. He has defended his actions.

He took no questions from reporters, but reiterated general comments he has made recently about the matter.

"There is no commitment in my mind or heart more deep, more heartfelt than my commitment to the protection of children," he said.

Egan's colleague, Cardinal Bernard Law of Boston, Massachusetts, is the target of mounting calls for his resignation because of allegations that he largely ignored -- or tried to cover up -- accusations of pedophilia against some priests.