IOWA CITY (IA)
WOI
IOWA CITY, Iowa Victims of sexual abuse by Roman Catholic priests said the church and individuals confronted with allegations should not intimidate their accusers and should "act as Jesus would."
The remarks were included in a two-day "Weekend of Hope and Understanding" conference in Iowa City.
The conference was held Friday and Saturday.
David Clohessy, executive director of the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, says there should be a zero tolerance policy in terms of sexual abuse of children by priests.
When accused, he says priests should defend themselves without attacking their accusers.
The goal of the conference, according to event organizers was to encourage victims of sexual abuse by priests to come forward and to get support from other Catholics and fellow survivors.
Posted by kshaw at June 27, 2005 07:17 AM