[T]he delay [in defrocking Kiesle] continued amidst the huge media commotion over the Gauthe case in Louisiana, the first of the big priest pedophile scandals of our time, which broke in the Spring of 1985. At that time, meanwhile, Ratzinger was bringing the hammer down on theologian Charles Curran (for being soft on sexual ethics) and Seattle Archbishop Raymond Hunthausen (in part for his ministry to homosexuals), and preparing a document condemning tolerance of homosexuality ("Pastoral Care of Homosexuals"). So in what would become a familiar two-step, it was the hard line on sexual doctrine, the tolerant understanding for abusive priests.
Thoughts & interests of a queer seeker of the Divine Presence;
of a “soul dancer,” seeking to embody with grace and verve
the mystico-prophetic spiritual tradition
It is so hard to understand this. Why did thy turn a blind eye to abuse of innocents but in the meantime refuse to accept those trying to live lives of dignity and integrity?
ReplyDeleteGood question, Mark. I guess avoiding "scandal" to the institution's clerical caste system and its draconian "teachings" on sexuality takes precedence over all else - even the welfare of children. It's both reprehensible and tragic.
ReplyDeletePeace,
Michael
Yes, it is Michael. But I think the Pope is learning that in this age of the internet they can't cover things up. At this point it seems that they are asking offending priests to leave. But that doesn't do much to help those that were abused in the past.
ReplyDelete