Loading...
Loading...
Click here if you don’t see subscription options
James Martin, S.J.April 17, 2008
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
Comments are automatically closed two weeks after an article's initial publication. See our comments policy for more.
17 years 1 month ago
Watching three of the victims on CNN was most moving and each seemed to appreciate the authenticity of the Pope's caring -- a huge gift towards healing. As John Allen said, "unprecedented" and a wonderful gesture that inspires us all. McDaid's challenge to the him that "there is huge cancer in the body of the church" (or words to that effect) is directed, I believe, at not just abusers, but the attitudes of many bishops and their diocesan attorneys. Although the reforms-- and costs! -- have created a sea change of attitude, it seems as though Benedict will quietly let this generation of bishops retire. Who will be in the next given the pool is yet questionable. I would love to think the Pope might present to Cardinal Law the list of 1000 victims given to him by the Boston Cardinal O'Malley and quietly look him in the eyes for five minutes as they also look at the names -- and then suggest that he know what he might do to help effect healing and that he will await his resignation. That would be unprecendented.

The latest from america

In a celebration of the Jubilee of Families, Children, Grandparents and the Elderly, Pope Leo XIV reminded the congregation of the importance of family in passing on the faith and ensuring the future of humanity.
Gerard O’ConnellJune 01, 2025
Join the 'Jesuitical' team at the studio and headquarters of America Media in New York City for two days of community, prayer and sharing stories of faith.
JesuiticalMay 30, 2025
Solar panels on the roof of the Paul VI audience hall at the Vatican in this Dec. 1, 2010, file photo. The installation had been approved by Pope Benedict XVI in 2008. Pope Francis released his landmark environmental encyclical "Laudato Si'" 10 years ago May 24, 2015. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)
There are some signs of progress in addressing the questions raised in “Laudato Si’.” There are also intimations of backpedaling, particularly by the Trump administration, regarding the industrialized world’s malign effects on creation.
Kevin ClarkeMay 30, 2025
In this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Colleen and Gerry explore the pope’s message to the Vatican workforce and recap Pope Leo’s formal installation at the Basilica of St. John Lateran on Sunday, May 25.
Inside the VaticanMay 30, 2025