"Young Philadelphia priest seeks to be an instrument of healing," by Monica Yant Kinney, The Philadelphia Inquirer, June 12, 2011. "I didn't cause the problem, and I can't undo events that have caused people such sorrow," Friel tells me. "But what I can do is . . . be an instrument of healing. Because that … Continue reading Young Priest Discusses Vocation in Midst of Scandal
Author: Susan Matthews
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Word Against Word – Second Alleged Abuse Victim Steps Forward
"In abuse scandal, case a test of belief: Special Report: A prisoner's accusations are vivid, a priest's denial adamant. Now, a push for the truth." by David O'Reilly and Nancy Phillips, The Philadelphia Inquirer. Reserve your judgment until you've read the entire article. Word against word leaves a huge burden of proof on the prosecution. … Continue reading Word Against Word – Second Alleged Abuse Victim Steps Forward
C4C FOX 29 segment on Cardinal Rigali Replacement Rumors
Catholics4Change on Cardinal Rigali Replacement Rumors, FOX 29, June 10, 2011
New Head of Office of Children and Youth Protection – Same Old Problems
"After grand jury report on Philadelphia clergy scandal, more changes, more accusers," by John P. Martin, The Philadelphia Inquirer, June, 9 2011 Important Excerpts: "The archdiocese expects to pay more than $1.2 million for abuse victims' therapy this year, three times the amount it paid five years ago." ··· "The changes include ending any interrogation … Continue reading New Head of Office of Children and Youth Protection – Same Old Problems
Cardinal Rigali Replaced Soon?
"Denver's Chaput among likely replacements for embattled Philly Cardinal Rigali," by John Tomasic, for The Colorado Independent, June 8, 2011
Q&A: How Can Priests Reach Those Who Need Them Most – the Victims?
Q. Fr. Chris, I appreciate your communication with us. My concern is that this crime continues because of silence and lack of action. If your silence means you are acting quietly then there is still hope. As for speaking out during homilies and in bulletins that would mean you have to attend mass……..the people that … Continue reading Q&A: How Can Priests Reach Those Who Need Them Most – the Victims?
We Want Our Priests to Speak Out
Featured Comment: by Laura Boquist While it may not be easy to speak out, I believe we are called to do so, and our priests must lead publicly on this issue. The culture that makes every attempt to resolve things privately allowed the abuse to continue for decades, and has exasperated many of us who … Continue reading We Want Our Priests to Speak Out
A Lost Calling
Below is a link to a note written by a Deacon candidate from the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph in regard to his heart wrenching decision to withdraw from ordination. This is just one of countless casualties of the Catholic Church sex abuse scandal. "I have decided not to accept the call to Holy Orders..." … Continue reading A Lost Calling
Meeting in Detroit to Reclaim Vision of Vatican Council II
The American Catholic Council meets in Detroit June 10-12 to celebrate and reclaim the vision of Vatican Council II. Please share what you think about their defining document posted below. A CATHOLIC BILL OF RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES To be human is to have rights. These include life and freedom, together with rights necessary to sustain … Continue reading Meeting in Detroit to Reclaim Vision of Vatican Council II
Q&A: Why Are So Many Priests Silent?
Q. Why are members of the priesthood silent on the various issues that challenge the church, today? What are the factors that silence them? Why do they permit the factors to silence them? Why don't they organize and provide substantive insights and remedies. And, why do we call silent priests "good priests"? If there is … Continue reading Q&A: Why Are So Many Priests Silent?
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