I found it interesting that St. Patrick Catholic Church in Hudson, Wisconsin, announced the immediate ousting of their priest after it was found that he stole money. The fact that they did this wasn’t surprising because historically the Church has acted quickly when the theft of money is involved.
Compare this to the many cases where priests have been moved, hidden, or just left when they were accused of being sexual predators toward children. There has been talk of no tolerance policies, but where is the practice?
It has been suggested that the second response is also due to money. The cost to the church for the years of moving pedophiles has been predicted as being high. So it was easier to keep quiet and hope that the silence remains. Or to hope that enough time goes by so that the legal system will prevent a claim.
These lives are more important than the money. They deserve to be protected and they deserve to find justice.
also take the time to read:
Catholic League President Bill Donohue Dishes Out Big Bucks for NY Times Ad, David Mittleman | April 11, 2011 4:41 PM
Abuse of children and the continued silence by the offenders needs to be prevented. If you suffered, saw, or suspected such events, it is important to know that there is help out there.
