SNAP responds to Pope's remarks on sexual abuse by clerics

By Kati Anderson
Northlands Newscenter
July 08, 2014

http://www.northlandsnewscenter.com/news/local/SNAP-responds-to-Popes-remarks-on-sexual-abuse-by-clerics-266351021.html

Duluth, MN (NNCNOW.com) -- The Survivor Network of Those Abused by Priests or "SNAP" is responding to Pope Francis' remarks about not tolerating sexual abuse by clerics.

On Monday, the Pope met with six people who have been abused by Roman Catholic priests.

This was the first time any Pope has met with victims of clergy sexual abuse inside the Vatican walls.

Verne Wagner, the Northern Minnesota Director of SNAP, says the group appreciates the efforts of the Pope to try to right the wrongs of the past, but he says action needs to be taken to follow the words.

"Until we really see changes by the Vatican, you have to wonder how sincere this is. Was this for publicity? Or will there actually be action taken to change how the church reacts to scandals and sexual abuse?" said Wagner.

SNAP is calling on the Duluth Diocese and the Benedictine Sisters of St. Scholastica to apologize for what he calls their lack of action to protect victims of sexual abuse in the Northland.