Youth Congress Speaker Discusses Apology, Mindy Aguon, KUAM, October 23, 2009

Youth Congress Speaker Discusses "Apology"

By Mindy Aguon
KUAM
October 23, 2009

http://www.kuam.com/Global/story.asp?S=11369617

Guam Youth Congress Speaker Derrick Hills says he doesn't see the Archbishop Anthony Apuron's latest letter to parishioners as an apology. Apuron on Thursday night clarified several points relating to discussions about homosexuality and allegations of sexual abuse by members of the clergy on Guam.

The leader of Guam's Catholic faithful wants to make it clear that homosexuals were not the target of his pastoral letter, which he says was not meant to condemn anyone. Apruon said, "If I have hurt anyone, please forgive me."

As for claims made regarding sexual abuse of children at the hands of clergy on the island, Apuron made assurances, saying the Catholic Church does not and will not tolerate any kind of sexual abuse. "A policy with clear procedures for action is in place and will be quickly enforced when reports of an improper behavior on the part of Archdiocesan personnel are received," wrote His Excellency.

Hills says that for the time being it's time to deal with the issues in Bill 185, relating to rights and benefits, instead of continually bickering with the Catholic Church.