Charter Progress Report Details Success Dioceses Have in Abuse Cases

By Dennis Sadowski
Catholic News Service
June 13, 2012

http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/1202484.htm

ATLANTA (CNS) -- While the Catholic Church has taken major steps in addressing allegations of clergy sexual abuse, it must continue to be vigilant in assuring that victims and their families will receive the attention and care they deserve, said the chairman of the National Review Board.

In a report marking the 10th anniversary of the "Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People," Al J. Notzon III told the U.S. bishops June 13 at their spring meeting that transparency remains a crucial component of building and maintaining credibility among the Catholic faithful as well as the general public.

He credited the country's bishops for developing more pastoral responses, rather than being concerned primarily with legal issues when allegations are made.

"In the long run, the strictly legal response caused more pain, did more damage and cost more money," Notzon said. "The lesson learned by the church is clear: We must treat those making allegations of sexual abuse with compassion and care. It is not only the best solution, but the right thing to do and an integral part of the church's spiritual mission."

The charter was part of the U.S. bishops' response to the clergy abuse scandal that was a major concern when they met in Dallas 10 years ago.

Notzon also commended the bishops for reporting abuse allegations to law enforcement authorities for investigation, a requirement of the charter. He cautioned that the bishops must continue to do so.

"When one bishop fails to do so, the whole church suffers," he said.

Despite the successes, Notzon said the church's credibility continues to suffer because many Catholics and the broader community not only believe clergy sexual abuse remains at a high level but also think that local bishops continue to cover up the problem by not reporting allegations of abuse to local authorities.

"This suggests a trust problem and must be met with scrupulous adherence to the charter," he said. "The truth is the dioceses and eparchies are still receiving reports of sexual abuse of minors and most are being reported to civil authorities as required by law. Those few cases that are not reported quickly become news.

"The harm that could be done to children and a distant second, the negative publicity that results, should serve as a reminder to all to follow canon law, diocesan policy and state law."