Pope Francis issued a letter to Catholics around the world Monday condemning the "crime" of priestly sexual abuse and its cover-up and demanding accountability.

“I think we need complete transparency if we’re going to get the trust of the people back,” said Erie Bishop Lawrence T. Persico.

Sipe's research into celibacy and priestly sexual behavior helped guide the work of church leaders and others responding to the clergy sexual abuse crisis.

Painfully aware of the anger Catholics are voicing, Boston Cardinal Sean P. O'Malley said Aug. 16 that something must be done right away.

“Those who have suffered are his priority, and the Church wants to listen to them to root out this tragic horror.”

Cardinal O'Malley was supposed to moderate a panel, "Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults," at the World Meeting of Families. He said in a statement that "he will closely follow the proceedings from the Archdiocese of Boston."