(2) I would far rather see criminal prosecutions of actual abusers/offenders (and this includes bishops/religious superiors guilty of obstruction of justice) rather than lawsuits that result in diocesan bankruptcies and the looting of the schools, property, and other assets of parishes that had nothing whatsoever to do with the offenses. Going for civil lawsuits and settlements rather than punitive measures against criminal perpetrators (and their enablers) is a huge injustice.
(3) The Catholic Church in the US has instituted a "Safe Environment" program It's based on the screening of all church employees and volunteers, universal training on detecting signs of abuse, and automatic criminal reporting. It is a comprehensive effort unmatched by any other institution in the United States.
But who do you think is responsible for this gag order on criminal prosecutions?
It's the Roman Catholic church, the Vatican, the priestly class and plenty of laymen who prefer to cough up the congregations' hard-earned cash than admit wrong-doing and prosecute their own.
So, at what point did God remove the principles of making amends for harm done found in scripture???
This isn't just about pedophiles being protected Mrs. Don-o. This is about pedophiles being protected AND Those they harmed being cast off like so much dishwater for decades.
Now if someone harmed you personally in a far lesser way than what was done to these children, say they only burned down your uninsured home one night with your vehicles and all your family photos and your pets inside, You get out alive but you are burned and in shock. Take it that the person who did this was oh perhaps the local sheriff. Someone who had authority over youjust as the Church had authority over these kids.
After this happens, the govornment refuses to discuss it. Leaves you homeless. They aren't going to make up for your loss, and you are wounded and peniless..
How is the Church's behavior not like that in this instance Mrs. Don-o? Is it okay only because it wasn't you?