[independentmind]

The issue is not, and never has been, that there are pedophiles and ephibophiles in the priesthood, nor do many sane people say that the there are more of them in the priesthood than in the population at large.

I suggest you read more of the comments posted on FR if you think that the population at large doesn't believe this.

THE issue was the cover-up of sexual abuse by the ierarchy. Bishops, when told priests were abusing children, told them to go on retreat and go to confession.

You are correct, of course. I blame that partly on over-reliance on advice from pyschiatrists and lawyers.

What pastoral responsibilities do you think Bishops have toward errant priests?

[sinkspur]

What pastoral responsibilities do you think Bishops have toward errant priests?

If the priests are not subject to criminal penalties, then they should be placed somewhere where they will not come into regular contact with children. I'm NOT in favor of simply turning these priests out on the streets, where they can abuse again.

The Church has a responsibility to both the priest, but more of a responsibility to possible victims.

[Rudder]

I blame that partly on over-reliance on advice from pyschiatrists...

Please elaborate.

[aimhigh]

What pastoral responsibilities do you think Bishops have toward errant priests?

The scriptures tell us that if an elder (church leader) is caught in sin, they are to be rebuked publically. And if they no longer meet the qualifications for leadership (1 Tim 3) they should be removed from leadership and lead back to God.