Read Todd Flowerday's commentary on the news in the Archdiocese of Chicago:
As long as the pope and bishops focus on sex predators, we can conclude they just don’t get it. Many of us have said it thousands of times. We’ve known for decades that clergy and religious have abused children, teens, and other vulnerable people in the guise of being spiritual helpers. Where do you think all the crazy nun and priest legends come from–rapping knuckles and all that? Priests behaving badly wasn’t news in 2002. What got people upset was that many bishops were criminally and morally complicit in illegal and horrific acts that victimized the weakest among us, especially children.See the complete post at Catholic Sensibility.
“We will do everything possible to ensure that this does not happen in the future. I think we have to act on three levels: the first is the level of justice and the political level. …then there is the pastoral level.”
ReplyDeleteBenedict XVI, 15 April 2008, Press Conference (during his US visit)
Now that Cardinal George's failures have been revealed in his deposition, I'm sure the process of "fraternal correction" by his fellow bishops will urge him to step down as the leader of the USCCB.
Since the pope is determined to pursue justice, I'm sure he will remove Cardinal George from his position as head of the Archdiocese of Chicago, just as he has removed so many other complicit bishops in the four months since he made the statement above.
“….This scourge is found not only within your dioceses but in every sector of society. It calls for a determined, collective response.”
Benedict XVI, 16 April 2008, To American Bishops (during his US trip)
The faithful wait for a "determined, collective response" from their pope and bishops. However, their non-actions so far have taught me not to hold my breath. Still I pray.