Rebuke of Cardinal Mahony Casts a Lengthy Shadow at L.A. Churches

Los Angeles Times
February 1, 2013

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Los Angeles Archbishop Jose Gomez's decision to relieve his predecessor, Cardinal Roger M. Mahony, of all public duties over his mishandling of clergy sex abuse of children decades ago was met by both resignation and disbelief in churches across the region.

"I was hoping it wasn't true," 71-year-old Ann Gapas said outside the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels after a morning prayer Friday.

"Then I come here this morning and everything is so silent and the news vans are here. It's so sad."

The news of the sex scandals have been conflicting for Gapas, who stood outside the cathedral's doors in a sweater and jeans, holding a church newsletter.

Priests "are our role models and we respect them so much," Gapas said. "You always hope it's not true."