A documentary aired on Ireland’s RTE on January 17, 2010, reveals the contents of a confidential letter from the Apostolic Nuncio to the Bishops of Ireland. The program claims that, on at least two occasions, the Vatican stepped in and stopped attempts by Irish bishops to defrock abuser priests. Details of one of those occasions was made public when an Irish High Court order finally allowed the full publication of a previously censored chapter in the Murphy Report on the Dublin Archdiocese.
The documentary, called "Unspeakable Crimes" which is available online, is compelling. It's very powerful without being strident. The reporting is not at all "sensationalist"- indeed, the program offers a balanced, and respectful approach.
In my opinion it sheds new, positive light on the attitude of the Irish Bishops, showing up the "clericalism" emanating from the Vatican. It also provides an encouraging perspective on the first years of Pope Benedict XVI. The program concludes that there may, finally, be a slight, hopeful, shift in the Vatican’s focus towards the victims of clergy abuse.
The program is s 42 minutes long; I heartily recommend viewing it. Marcial Maciel and the Legionaries of Christ are mentioned.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
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