Matthew Gambino, of Catholic New Service has reported that a new grand jury report has brought criminal indictments against several former archdiocese of Philadelphia priests. The charges include rape, assault and other felonies related to minors.
Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia announce three initiatives subsequent to the grand jury report. These include an immediate re-examination of cases of 37 priests said by the grand jury to have credible allegations of child sexual abuse. A former victim advocate has been hired to advise Cardinal Rigali how to address the needs of victims more effectively. A new position has been created called the “delegate for investigations” who will forward every allegation of abuse as soon as it is received to the proper civil authorities. There is also now someone hired as a clergy support associate to help ensure priests in active ministry comply with the “Standards of Ministerial Behavior and Boundaries,” a code of conduct for clergy developed in 2003.
Cardinal Rigali has said, “The release of the Philadelphia grand jury report…. brings great sadness and distress to every Catholic, to every person…. Once again, the issue of the sexual abuse of minors is raised, as well as the role of the church and her leaders in addressing this abuse. As Catholics, we are hurt and confused, and perhaps even quite angry and feeling betrayed.”–Catholic News Service.
Read the whole article at: Catholic News Service.
