Catholic church faces reckoning over abuse response failures
The Chairman of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, Cardinal Sean Patrick O'Malley, acknowledged that there was a "dark period" in the Church when its leaders did not apply the necessary procedures and standards to protect victims of child abuse. The American cardinal emphasized that the Church "tragically failed" those in its care and highlighted the urgent need for reforms.
30 October 2024 09:34
Presenting the first annual report on actions for the protection of minors in the Church, Cardinal Sean Patrick O'Malley expressed deep disappointment that only 20 percent of dioceses responded to the questionnaire that formed the basis of the document.
The cardinal noted that resolving the abuse crisis is difficult but necessary.
The church on the dignity of children
The report includes, among other things, a proposal for a papal encyclical on the dignity of children and victims' rights. The document is dedicated to those harmed by clergy.
"Indeed, it is only by listening to them directly that we can learn the truth of their human dignity being repeatedly violated," said Cardinal O'Malley, expressing gratitude to the victims for their courage in sharing their experiences.
Referring to the Church's past, the cardinal stated: "Their stories reveal a deceitful period where Church leaders tragically failed those we are called to shepherd. It is an unprofessional period where Church leaders make decisions without any adherence to policies, procedures or basic standards of concern for the victims."
He also added: "It is a dark period when distrust hinders the Church's ability to bear witness to Christ."
However, the cardinal emphasized that a new stage has begun, where ""accountability, care and concern for victims is beginning to bring light to the darkness." He pointed out the importance of abuse reporting systems that allow listening to victims and responding to their needs, as well as the necessity of a trauma-informed approach.
the church prefers to care for its reputation rather than victims
The report noted that the Church in Europe has not made the expected progress in combating abuse, and in some countries, the institution's reputation seems to take precedence over victim protection. It highlighted the lack of available reporting mechanisms and the lack of response from church authorities to reports. The necessity for disciplinary action against leaders who did not respond to abuse, as well as compensation for victims, was emphasized.
Speaking at the conference was Chilean victims' advocate, Juan Carlos Cruz.
"Truth, justice, reparation and a guarantee of non-recurrence. Those are heavy, heavy words that before were taboo in many places," he said.
He expressed gratitude to Pope Francis for the actions taken and care for victims, adding that a new day is beginning for the Church.
