Conference of Religous India Bulletin
October 12, 2011
http://www.religiousindia.org/2011/10/12/huge-number-of-nuns-have-faced-sexual-harassment-sr-panikulam/
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Sr Panikulam, who helps religious with psycho-sexual counseling, told the 75 religious present that abuse cases of young religious are increasing and a cause of much concern
A high proportion of nuns have been "victims of rape and sexual abuse" either before or after entering religious life, according to Sr Agnes Panikulam.
The medical mission sister made the disclosure at a program on Oct 8, organized by the Conference of Religious India at Mount St. Mary's School, Delhi Cantonment.
Another consequence, she said, is that "a significant number of abuse victims are attracted to religious life which offers safety and a respected personal identity".
Sr Panikulam spoke of the trauma of such experiences which lead to psychological problems and spiritual crises for the victims at the program titled "Sexual abuse in the church and society and its adverse impact on individuals and the Gospel ministries".
"Some of the consequences are anxiety, anger – expressed or suppressed – low self-esteem, suicidal tendencies, loss of faith and accepting sexual activity as part of life, in clear denial of the vowed commitments."
Sr Panikulam, who helps religious with psycho-sexual counseling, told the 75 religious present that abuse cases of young religious are increasing and a cause of much concern.
Noting that the problem is wide-spread across the country, she said there is urgent need to raise the consciousness of the problem within the Christian community, especially among the clergy and the religious.
She said it is believed that in India some 50% of minors among the general population have been abused and called for professionally-trained counselors.
Sr Panikulam alongwith Tessy Anthony, secretary for Commission for Women of Delhi archdiocese, held interactive open sessions.
It was observed that there was a pressing need of 'non-judgmental' love and an attitude of compassion towards the victims and short-term courses to help tackle such problems.
Sr. Shalini Mulakal gave a short introduction of the CBCI document on Gender Policy. She said "it offered the accepted policy by our bishops regarding the gender relationships in the Church and it can be helpful in cases of conflicts and tensions."
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