..."The Vatican was asked why it continued to describe abuse as an offence against morals rather than a crime against children.
"Does the Holy See believe that paedophilia is something that can be successfully overcome?" was another question.
Archbishop Silvano Tomasi said: "To prevent abuse of minors is a real, immediate concern."
On prosecution of offenders, he said priests were "not functionaries of the Vatican but citizens of their countries and fall under the jurisdiction of their own countries..".
Bridget Mary's Response: The Vatican has jurisdiction of every aspect of church life with canon law, so ultimately it is responsible for the world-wide cover-up.
Of course, priests are also citizens, and are accountable.
But sexual abuse is a crime, not just a moral failure.
It is time for the Vatican to take responsibility for these horrific abuse and change the structures of the church so all the baptized are accountable including priests and hierarchy! Bridget Mary Meehan, ARCWP, www.arcwp.org
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