‘Worst abuse cases known’

MALTA
The Sunday Times of Malta

Auxiliary Bishop Charles Scicluna believes the “most terrible” cases of sexual abuse by the clergy have come to light, but the Church can never lower its guard.

“This is a work in progress. It’s not the time for complacency, but time to be aware and proactive. The innocence of children is non-negotiable,” he told The Sunday Times of Malta.

In a telephone interview on his return from Geneva, the Vatican’s former sex crimes prosecutor said the eight-hour grilling before the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child on Thursday was a tough but positive experience.

During the live webcast hearing, UN child protection experts pushed the Holy See delegates to reveal the extent of the decades-long sexual abuse of minors by priests.

Mgr Scicluna said this meeting gave the Vatican the chance to respond to the committee’s concerns and reaffirm its commitment to protect children throughout the Catholic Church and its institutions.

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