Victims to Philly Archbishop: Don't Give Lynn a Job

By Barbara Dorris
SNAP
January 2, 2014

http://www.snapnetwork.org/pa_victims_to_philly_archbishop_don_t_give_lynn_a_job

We again call on Archbishop Charles Chaput to reassure parents, parishioners and the public that he won't put Msgr. William Lynn back on the job anywhere.

There's some doubt about whether Msgr. Lynn can be criminally prosecuted for his wrongdoing. There is no doubt, however, that he did wrong. And his wrongdoing was repeated and serious - knowingly putting proven, admitted and credibly accused child molesters into new parishes without warning parents or telling police.

So we're upset that Archbishop Charles Chaput paid Lynn's bail. Chaput's action sends the worst possible message to current and former Catholic employees: "No matter how recklessly, callously and deceitfully you danger kids and protect predators, the Catholic hierarchy will help you."

Now, Chaput could add insult to injury - and send another distressing message - by giving Msgr. Lynn another assignment. We hope that Chaput won't do this. In fact, we hope Chaput will show some compassion and sensitivity, and put the fears of Philadelphia Catholics and victims at rest, by publicly announcing that Msgr. Lynn will be given no position - now or ever.

It's the least Chaput can do, given the harm that Msgr. Lynn has done. And it's the least Chaput can do, if he wants to show that there's been even the slightest reform in the Catholic hierarchy when it comes to the safety of kids.