This report from Ireland on the Roman Catholic clergy sexual abuse scandal is profoundly disturbing though sadly not surprising. This cleric said it best:
“I am profoundly sorry and deeply ashamed,” Cardinal Sean Brady said after the report was released Wednesday in Dublin. “Children deserved better and especially from those caring for them in the name of Jesus Christ.”
I continue to wonder when the laity are going to take control of their church. This scandal didn’t just happen in the U.S. and Ireland. It occurred (and is still occurring) throughout the world. It’s time to stop showing such deference to priests and especially the bishops, and start taking charge. The parishioners fund the church. They have the power. What has to happen before they use it?
P.S. To add insult to injury, the church in Ireland elected to keep the names of abusive priests confidential. Once again, protection of the clergy is placed ahead of what’s best for the abused children and even the long-term health of the church. Where’s St. Francis of Assisi when you need him?
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2 responses so far ↓
1 Jumper2 // May 21, 2009 at 1:29 pm
It’s just all wrong!
2 djh // May 21, 2009 at 6:02 pm
A minor clarification — not only did the Brothers elect to obscure the names — they successfully sued to have the names remain anonymous [most Irish papers refer to this].
Any apology is completely hollow as they still protect their own.
Many see it as a whitewash.
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