Today Pope Benedict met with “five or six” victims of sexual abuse, from the Boston area. The emotional meeting took place in the office of the Vatican nuncio to the U.S., in Washington, D.C. For many Catholics, this represents a significant step forward in the healing of the church. It is not a panacea, but a very positive, and pastoral, response from the pope. Read more of my commentary here:Pope Meets with Abuse Victims And here is a link to The Anchoress, who has had a searing personal experience with abuse, and therefore strong opinions on the matter: The Anchoress James Martin, SJ

The Rev. James Martin, S.J., is a Jesuit priest, author, editor at large at America and founder of Outreach.