Can New NH Bishop Fix Church's Image?, by Robert Michaelson, The Patch, September 20, 2011

Can New NH Bishop Fix Church's Image?

By Robert Michaelson
The Patch
September 20, 2011

http://amherst.patch.com/articles/can-new-nh-bishop-fix-churchs-image

Peter Libasci has been named the new bishop in New Hampshire, but he has not been met with open arms by all members of the community.

While there are members of the Roman Catholic Church who are excited for the new bishop, who is replacing Bishop John McCormack, many still cannot forgive the many incidents of clergy abuse that plague the church.

Libasci admitted in a speech on Monday that the church is continuing to deal with the challenges of the church-wide scandal.

"The most important thing right off the bat is the compassion -- the compassion and the desire to heal, to help restore to heal and to again, rebuild individual lives, family lives, life of the church, life of the community -- it's so important, and that will be a very important part of my life," Libasci said.

Jennifer Horn, a conservative political activist and parishioner at Immaculate Conception Church in Nashua, said a new bishop should be a signal of hope and optimism among local Catholics.

While some may see the young bishop as a step forward, others are not so forgiving.

For example, Terence McKiernan, president and founder, BishopAccountability.org, released a statement Monday that said the appointment is an example of the Vatican's "keeping it in the family" and disrespecting those who have been abused.

What do you think? Is Libasci the man who should lead and repair the church's image, or is he the wrong choice and a step in the wrong direction?