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	Pope Acknowledges Shame at Sex Abuse Scandal Zenit July 18, 2008 http://www.zenit.org/article-23265?l=english SYDNEY, Australia - Benedict XVI is praying that this period of purification after the clergy sexual abuse scandal will lead to reconciliation and greater fidelity to the Gospel. The Pope said this Saturday morning local time in a brief mention of the scandal during his homily at Mass with Australian clergy. "Dear friends, may this celebration, in the presence of the Successor of Peter, be a moment of rededication and renewal for the whole Church in Australia," the Holy Father said. "Here I would like to pause to acknowledge the shame which we have all felt as a result of the sexual abuse of minors by some clergy and religious in this country." The Pontiff affirmed that these "misdeeds, which constitute so grave a betrayal of trust," deserve "unequivocal condemnation." "They have caused great pain and have damaged the Church's witness," Benedict XVI lamented. He asked those present to support the bishops and to work with them at combating this evil. "Victims should receive compassion and care, and those responsible for these evils must be brought to justice," the Pope continued. "It is an urgent priority to promote a safer and more wholesome environment, especially for young people." The Holy Father said the celebration of World Youth Day -- the occasion that has brought him to Australia -- reminds of "how precious a treasure has been entrusted to us in our young people, and how great a part of the Church's mission in this country has been dedicated to their education and care." "As the Church in Australia continues, in the spirit of the Gospel, to address effectively this serious pastoral challenge," the Pontiff said, "I join you in praying that this time of purification will bring about healing, reconciliation and ever greater fidelity to the moral demands of the Gospel."
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