Even though we live in different parts of the country and have varying spiritual beliefs, Lori, SueBE and I tend to agree more often than not. I was nodding in agreement and Amen!-ing as I read Lori’s timely post on the recent clergy sexual abuse scandal in the Catholic Church.
Hmm. Didn’t I just see an article about the Pope that I wanted to read later? Yes. It had the words “outrage” and “action” in it. As it turns out, it wasn’t about the abuse scandals, but plastics in the ocean. So I searched online to see what his response was to the abuse scandals, and what he’s pledged to do to change the culture that allowed it to happen.
“It is my hope that the gravity of the abuse scandals, which have cast a light on the failings of many, will serve to emphasize the importance of the protection of minors and vulnerable adults on the part of society as a whole,” he said, according to a transcript published by the Irish Times.
The failings of many. Nowhere did I see him say, The buck stops with me. I’m the head of this church, and it’s up to me to atone for the past and find a way to make it right. Heads are gonna roll!
Contrast that with what he said about the the environment:
“In a message focusing on the ‘precious element’ of water, Pope Francis has called for urgent action to combat the “emergency” of plastics littering seas and oceans.
“At last year’s climate talks in Bonn, Francis rebuked those who denied the science behind climate change, and urged negotiators not to fall prey to such ‘perverse attitudes’”.
What is wrong with this picture?
Although I don’t belong to the Catholic Church, I do belong to the human race. With all due respect to the pontiff, if our children aren’t protected in houses of worship, where can they ever be safe?
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September 4, 2018 at 4:42 am
calensariel
What a great post! And what a surprising contrast. I have to say I’m disappointed in his response as well. I have great respect for him. I think he’s trying to break the old mold and make it far better. But not in this area…
September 4, 2018 at 2:12 pm
rhcwilliams
I know what you mean, Lady C – I’m not even Catholic and I feel betrayed. Perhaps because I really believed he was embodying a more loving approach that you don’t always see in religious leaders. Now? I’m disillusioned.
September 4, 2018 at 10:57 pm
calensariel
I guess even the Pope can’t get it right all the time. But this was a biggie…