Pope Benedict Meets Irish Bishops About Abuse Scandal
(11 Dec 09 - RV) Pope Benedict on Friday met with Irish bishops about a report on
sexual abuse in the Archdiocese of Dublin which has shaken the island. We have the
story... Full
Text of Communiqué Released By Holy See Press Office
Today the
Holy Father held a meeting with senior Irish Bishops and high-ranking members of the
Roman Curia. He listened to their concerns and discussed with them the traumatic
events that were presented in the Irish Commission of Investigation’s Report into
the Catholic Archdiocese of Dublin. After careful study of the Report, the Holy
Father was deeply disturbed and distressed by its contents. He wishes once more to
express his profound regret at the actions of some members of the clergy who have
betrayed their solemn promises to God, as well as the trust placed in them by the
victims and their families, and by society at large. The Holy Father shares the
outrage, betrayal and shame felt by so many of the faithful in Ireland, and he is
united with them in prayer at this difficult time in the life of the Church. His
Holiness asks Catholics in Ireland and throughout the world to join him in praying
for the victims, their families and all those affected by these heinous crimes. He
assures all concerned that the Church will continue to follow this grave matter with
the closest attention in order to understand better how these shameful events came
to pass and how best to develop effective and secure strategies to prevent any recurrence.
The Holy See takes very seriously the central issues raised by the Report, including
questions concerning the governance of local Church leaders with ultimate responsibility
for the pastoral care of children. The Holy Father intends to address a Pastoral
Letter to the faithful of Ireland in which he will clearly indicate the initiatives
that are to be taken in response to the situation. Finally, His Holiness encourages
all those who have dedicated their lives in generous service to children to persevere
in their good works in imitation of Christ the Good Shepherd.