In recent days a number of stories have appeared in the media which question Pope Benedict’s handling of cases involving sex abuse of minors by clergy. In light of these stories we think it is important to recognize that Benedict XVI, both before and after being elected Pope, has worked energetically to address these cases and to eradicate sexual abuse in the Church. Many people have expressed a wish to know more about this matter. While we do not endorse everything stated here, we make available some links to recent articles that address Pope Benedict’s record.
We also include a link to the statement of the USCCB, which contains the following words: "We know from our experience how Pope Benedict is deeply concerned for those who have been harmed by sexual abuse and how he has strengthened the Church’s response to victims and supported our efforts to deal with perpetrators."
Pastoral Letter of The Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI to the Catholics of Ireland (March 19, 2010). Guide to Understanding Basic Procedures of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) concerning Sexual Abuse Allegations , published by the Vatican, April 12, 2010.
Statement of the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops expressing concern for victims of clergy sexual abuse and thanking Pope Benedict for his leadership, March 30, 2010.
John Allen, “ A Papal Conversion ,” in The New York Times , March 27, 2010.
Raymond D’Souza, “ A Response to the New York Times ," in National Review Online , March 27, 2010.
George Weigel, First Things Online , March 29, 2010.
Fr. Thomas Brundage, JLC (presiding judge for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee in the case of Father Lawrence Murphy), " Setting the Record Straight in the Case of Abusive Milwaukee Priest Father Lawrence Murphy ."
Msgr. Charles J. Scicluna (Promoter of Justice for the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, who handles the cases brought against abusive priests), " Church on Strict Patrol " March 14, 2010.
