Thursday, November 13, 2014
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Probation for abusing a minor !?
http://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/irish-abuse-priest-gets-probation-650653.html
Probation for Irish priest in Chile
Disgraceful . Do they not care ?
Probation for Irish priest in Chile
Disgraceful . Do they not care ?
Thursday, October 16, 2014
Monday, September 29, 2014
Fr Cleary's 'relationships' were sexual exploitation.
http://www.independent.ie/irish-news/news/darcy-church-must-do-all-it-can-to-help-clearys-child-30623250.html
This was not a RELATIONSHIP! Phyllis Hamilton was sexual exploited. When will the newspaper NAME this violation of females by clergy. Phyllis was 17 ! in law I think at the time 'under age' (18? or maybe 21 even) . a girls not adult.
sickens me how clearly is seen as a poor man forced into celibacy and sure....he's only a man after all!
AaAHHHHHh
This was not a RELATIONSHIP! Phyllis Hamilton was sexual exploited. When will the newspaper NAME this violation of females by clergy. Phyllis was 17 ! in law I think at the time 'under age' (18? or maybe 21 even) . a girls not adult.
sickens me how clearly is seen as a poor man forced into celibacy and sure....he's only a man after all!
AaAHHHHHh
Monday, September 15, 2014
Marie collins on Vincent Brown
http://www.tv3.ie/3player/show/41/84248/1/Tonight-with-Vincent-Browne
Marie Collins on Vincent Brown prog. (Few Ads before it)
Marie Collins on Vincent Brown prog. (Few Ads before it)
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Wesolowski Sexual Abuse Case a New Approach or Same Old Same Old? | Religion Dispatches
Wesolowski Sexual Abuse Case a New Approach or Same Old Same Old? | Religion Dispatches
one boy had epilepsy and weslowski gave him medication...truly ...truly evil...if true and of course he has not yet been found guilty!
one boy had epilepsy and weslowski gave him medication...truly ...truly evil...if true and of course he has not yet been found guilty!
On a roll in the Holy Land, Legion compares Maciel to Magdalene | National Catholic Reporter
On a roll in the Holy Land, Legion compares Maciel to Magdalene | National Catholic Reporter
40 million for a conservative catholic centre in the Holy Land ...and Maciel is a 'Mary Magdalene'...on yes ? and satan is Jesus I suppose.
a disgrace and dishonour to all those Maciel abused, to Mary Magdala, To Jesus ....will Catholics ever 'get it'!
and this pops up on my facebook page on the day for equality for women's day...ye Gods!
40 million for a conservative catholic centre in the Holy Land ...and Maciel is a 'Mary Magdalene'...on yes ? and satan is Jesus I suppose.
a disgrace and dishonour to all those Maciel abused, to Mary Magdala, To Jesus ....will Catholics ever 'get it'!
and this pops up on my facebook page on the day for equality for women's day...ye Gods!
For Nuncio Accused of Abuse, Dominicans Want Justice at Home, Not Abroad - NYTimes.com
For Nuncio Accused of Abuse, Dominicans Want Justice at Home, Not Abroad - NYTimes.com
It's time the Vatican STATE (sic) lost it's 'statehood'. The farce of a RELIGION owning a small bit of Roman Land calling itself a STATE is way past it's sell by date.
Absolutely farcical....
maybe I should declare my house and land a 'state'. Maybe we should have a SURVIVORS state!?
It's time the Vatican STATE (sic) lost it's 'statehood'. The farce of a RELIGION owning a small bit of Roman Land calling itself a STATE is way past it's sell by date.
Absolutely farcical....
maybe I should declare my house and land a 'state'. Maybe we should have a SURVIVORS state!?
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Vatican Refuses to Cooperate with Australian Child Abuse Commission, Calls it ‘Unreasonable’ - International Business Times
Vatican Refuses to Cooperate with Australian Child Abuse Commission, Calls it ‘Unreasonable’ - International Business Times
so please tell me what the point is of
a) victims sitting on the new Vatican 'commission on child abuse'
b) victims having breakfast with the Pope/meeting the Pope
c) apologies from Francis
double standards, hypocrisy.
so please tell me what the point is of
a) victims sitting on the new Vatican 'commission on child abuse'
b) victims having breakfast with the Pope/meeting the Pope
c) apologies from Francis
double standards, hypocrisy.
ann Kennedy & margaret Kennedy
I hope you will not mind if I post our appeal for donations on this page. (This is a blog I set up)
As you may know we are BOTH clergy sexual abuse survivors and now have a neuro-muscular disease . this means we need to use wheelchairs. The Irish Health Service is very poor indeed and the wheelchairs they have given us are absolutely AWFUL!
So we are trying to raise funds for DECENT powered wheelchairs.
https://www.facebook.com/mitotwinsireland
This facebook page gives all the details. Please share as best you can.
Many many thanks
As you may know we are BOTH clergy sexual abuse survivors and now have a neuro-muscular disease . this means we need to use wheelchairs. The Irish Health Service is very poor indeed and the wheelchairs they have given us are absolutely AWFUL!
So we are trying to raise funds for DECENT powered wheelchairs.
https://www.facebook.com/mitotwinsireland
This facebook page gives all the details. Please share as best you can.
Many many thanks
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Friday, August 22, 2014
Cardinal George Pell backs Vatican over dealings with abuse victims | Herald Sun
Cardinal George Pell backs Vatican over dealings with abuse victims | Herald Sun
It is time the Vican lost it's 'Statehood' . Its bizarre, completely Bizarre.
It is time the Vican lost it's 'Statehood' . Its bizarre, completely Bizarre.
Top Vatican figure in row over abuse comments - RTÉ News
Top Vatican figure in row over abuse comments - RTÉ News
why did he give evidence by video link? Why not go to Australia? Is he AFRAID of being arrested!?
why did he give evidence by video link? Why not go to Australia? Is he AFRAID of being arrested!?
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Abuse victims still calling after 18 years | News.com.au
Abuse victims still calling after 18 years | News.com.au
Look at the Church 'compensation' payments. Derisory, offensive and degrading. Don't go to the Church...go straight to the police.
Look at the Church 'compensation' payments. Derisory, offensive and degrading. Don't go to the Church...go straight to the police.
Monday, August 18, 2014
Mother Teresa Was No Saint Says Study
Mother Teresa Was No Saint Says Study
I can believe this!
What did she do with the money? and is her order any better today?
I can believe this!
What did she do with the money? and is her order any better today?
Friday, August 15, 2014
Cardinal Brady offers resignation as head of Irish Catholic church | BreakingNews.ie
Cardinal Brady offers resignation as head of Irish Catholic church | BreakingNews.ie
Disgraceful...should have been SACKED long ago, but Vatican would not do it. Now he's reached his his of retirement so has to go anyway.
Irish survivors thought Pope Francis would 'hear' them over This man...he didn't
Disgraceful...should have been SACKED long ago, but Vatican would not do it. Now he's reached his his of retirement so has to go anyway.
Irish survivors thought Pope Francis would 'hear' them over This man...he didn't
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
The boys from Berlin: The MI5 officers who covered up Kincora
The boys from Berlin: The MI5 officers who covered up Kincora
Kincora...a boys home in Northern Ireland where 'notables' 'visited' for abuse purposes. all hush hushed of course.
Kincora...a boys home in Northern Ireland where 'notables' 'visited' for abuse purposes. all hush hushed of course.
Saturday, August 9, 2014
Child rapists, paedophile suspects all let off by police - because they said SORRY | Mail Online
Child rapists, paedophile suspects all let off by police - because they said SORRY | Mail Online
I don't believe restorative justice appropriate for sex crimes - period.
I don't believe restorative justice appropriate for sex crimes - period.
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Bishop of Gloucester quizzed by police over historic indecent assault claims against a woman and girl (From Gazette Series)
Bishop of Gloucester quizzed by police over historic indecent assault claims against a woman and girl (From Gazette Series)
Poor Glos now they've had TWO bishops alleged to be sex offenders!
Poor Glos now they've had TWO bishops alleged to be sex offenders!
Bishop of Gloucester questioned by police over indecent assault allegations - Telegraph
Bishop of Gloucester questioned by police over indecent assault allegations - Telegraph
now out in open. these are the 'personal reasons' for stepping down.
it would have been better if the Church simply told the truth!
now out in open. these are the 'personal reasons' for stepping down.
it would have been better if the Church simply told the truth!
Diocese of Gloucester remains tight-lipped over Bishop Michael Perham's sudden decision to step down | Gloucestershire Echo
Diocese of Gloucester remains tight-lipped over Bishop Michael Perham's sudden decision to step down | Gloucestershire Echo
well, indeed if the Church want to play the 'secret' game it'll surely backfire. It's hardly for 'personal reasons'. All I can say... the police are investigating!
Its time the Church is honest and transparent.
well, indeed if the Church want to play the 'secret' game it'll surely backfire. It's hardly for 'personal reasons'. All I can say... the police are investigating!
Its time the Church is honest and transparent.
Monday, August 4, 2014
Saturday, August 2, 2014
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Saturday, July 26, 2014
Pain of abuse stays forever / Sunday World
Pain of abuse stays forever / Sunday World
Just wondering if the police realised they could unleash a tsunami of emotions when contacting victims? Do they offer ENOUGH support. Are they willing to help the victim?
Seems to me that this man was really NOT ready or able to go through criminal proceedings...but probably felt guilt if he refused.
Is the end result 'worth it'? could the abuser have been dealt with in another way/
The article leaves me profoundly concerned about 'fragile' victims...
Just wondering if the police realised they could unleash a tsunami of emotions when contacting victims? Do they offer ENOUGH support. Are they willing to help the victim?
Seems to me that this man was really NOT ready or able to go through criminal proceedings...but probably felt guilt if he refused.
Is the end result 'worth it'? could the abuser have been dealt with in another way/
The article leaves me profoundly concerned about 'fragile' victims...
Safe haven for victims and survivors of sexual abuse
Safe haven for victims and survivors of sexual abuse
Wishing my friend Ruth McNeely in Mayo a fab retirement . Hoping she'll rest & enjoy. She deserves it. Years of dedication, hard work in a most distressing area of work. good Luck Ruth
Wishing my friend Ruth McNeely in Mayo a fab retirement . Hoping she'll rest & enjoy. She deserves it. Years of dedication, hard work in a most distressing area of work. good Luck Ruth
Friday, July 25, 2014
Pope Francis asked us for forgiveness..my response to him | rapevictimsofthecatholicchurch
Pope Francis asked us for forgiveness..my response to him | rapevictimsofthecatholicchurch
some will never be able to 'forgive' the Pope...they are dead!
some will never be able to 'forgive' the Pope...they are dead!
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Book reveals Cardinal's role in abuse 'inquiry' - Independent.ie
Book reveals Cardinal's role in abuse 'inquiry' - Independent.ie
and Brady still sits on the 'throne' of Ireland. a survivor who met the pope two weeks ago told pope Francis to get rid of him. No nothing!
and Brady still sits on the 'throne' of Ireland. a survivor who met the pope two weeks ago told pope Francis to get rid of him. No nothing!
Saturday, July 19, 2014
Friday, July 18, 2014
Sex abuse damages claim against Redemptorist Order halted
Sex abuse damages claim against Redemptorist Order halted
STROUD
That notorious place crops up again.
Hope it will be included in the institutional abuse inquiry! COVER-UP its second name!
STROUD
That notorious place crops up again.
Hope it will be included in the institutional abuse inquiry! COVER-UP its second name!
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Monday, July 7, 2014
Abuse victims urge Pope to sack Cardinal Brady during visit to Vatican - Irish Mirror Online
Abuse victims urge Pope to sack Cardinal Brady during visit to Vatican - Irish Mirror Online
Good on her!
However how can the Pope say he's concerned about abuse, apologies to victims yet won't send abuse files to Australian commission.
Sorry but unless he starts a clear-out no headway will be made.
Good on her!
However how can the Pope say he's concerned about abuse, apologies to victims yet won't send abuse files to Australian commission.
Sorry but unless he starts a clear-out no headway will be made.
Vatican says 848 priests defrocked for sexual abuse since 2004 - NY Daily News
Vatican says 848 priests defrocked for sexual abuse since 2004 - NY Daily News
Not sure I favour the picture. It says Marie is being 'pulled' to exit the press coverage. That figures!
What about sacking the Bishops who allowed these guys free reign
Not sure I favour the picture. It says Marie is being 'pulled' to exit the press coverage. That figures!
What about sacking the Bishops who allowed these guys free reign
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Coping
For children of priests - International
For children of priests - International
Coping is an International Social Forum for Children of priests, their mothers and fathers to come together to talk in complete confidence, reflect and seek help in a pacifist, activist manner. It is completely private and nobody will know you are a member of Coping at all. Contact us on
copingireland@gmail.com (Ireland and UK)
copingusa@gmail.com (The United States)
...
copingireland@gmail.com (Ireland and UK)
copingusa@gmail.com (The United States)
...
copinginternational@groups.facebook.com
Phyllis had third child after being raped by a priest - Independent.ie
Phyllis had third child after being raped by a priest - Independent.ie
When will people call what happened to Phyllis downright abuse, exploitation and a scandal! Fr Cleary set this all up by 'seducing', 'exploiting' and 'capturing' her when age 17
sick of the mis-information flying around about her and this guy, 'fr' Cleary.
When will people call what happened to Phyllis downright abuse, exploitation and a scandal! Fr Cleary set this all up by 'seducing', 'exploiting' and 'capturing' her when age 17
sick of the mis-information flying around about her and this guy, 'fr' Cleary.
Friday, July 4, 2014
The HSE Say that Survivors of the Industrial Schools are not allowed to drink Alcohol!! - The Shame of Ireland
The HSE Say that Survivors of the Industrial Schools are not allowed to drink Alcohol!! - The Shame of Ireland
This is the health Service of Ireland (HSE) how DARE they tell survivors they are not allowed drink alcohol!
I am outraged
This is the health Service of Ireland (HSE) how DARE they tell survivors they are not allowed drink alcohol!
I am outraged
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Judge dismisses child sex abuse charge against priest, citing his dementia | CharlotteObserver.com
Judge dismisses child sex abuse charge against priest, citing his dementia | CharlotteObserver.com
seems to me there was an 'investment' NOT to prosecute early. Someone knew this guy had early dementia signs and let this case slide! I'm convinced.
I'm hoping the Catholic Church is supporting the victim (and I'm not going to say 'alleged') ...but I wouldn't hold my breath. If a priest is NOT convicted the Church says 'no case' period.
Sickening.
seems to me there was an 'investment' NOT to prosecute early. Someone knew this guy had early dementia signs and let this case slide! I'm convinced.
I'm hoping the Catholic Church is supporting the victim (and I'm not going to say 'alleged') ...but I wouldn't hold my breath. If a priest is NOT convicted the Church says 'no case' period.
Sickening.
An Open Communication to Archbishop Rembert Weakland, O.S.B. « SNAP Wisconsin
An Open Communication to Archbishop Rembert Weakland, O.S.B. « SNAP Wisconsin
Weakland betrayed children and their parents and communities. He needs to seriously UNDERSTAND what he has done.
Weakland betrayed children and their parents and communities. He needs to seriously UNDERSTAND what he has done.
Monday, June 30, 2014
Irish abuse survivors to meet Pope Francis next week
Irish abuse survivors to meet Pope Francis next week
What is this picture all about?
Marie Collins an Irish clergy abuse survivor holds hand with a Vatican Clergyman.
It disturbs me for many reasons.
I dislike the image intensely. Marie Collins is being USED. I wish she could see it.
What is this picture all about?
Marie Collins an Irish clergy abuse survivor holds hand with a Vatican Clergyman.
It disturbs me for many reasons.
- Marie holds hands with a POWERFUL prelate who is a responsible acting cleric who represents a vast machinery of previous cover-up of abuse.
- He is NOT a 'little boy lost' with Mamma holding his hand to offer solace and guidance!
- Holding hands is infantile when trying to address SERIOUS, SERIOUS issues.
- Holding hands BEFORE anything has been achieved is premature.
- It does not equalise any power dynamic, the Church still holds the power and women know this only too well
- It does not show humility by the prelate - it shows a skilled manipulation of POWER. 'Let Marie take my hand it shows I'm a nice humble man', it seems to suggest. No it does not. It shows manipulation whilst every Bishop worldwide still crucifies Clergy abuse victims through court procedures, hold files in secret, refusing to release information etc etc etc...
- It tries to garner public emotions : 'I'm a lost soul-cleric-man needing guidance of Maria'. No they know very well what they have done, what they have not done and what they won't do.
I dislike the image intensely. Marie Collins is being USED. I wish she could see it.
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Dean of Discipline of Cork school found guilty - Ireland
PRIEST GUILTY OF ABUSE
A PRIEST who was the Dean of Discipline at a Cork boarding school has been convicted of abusing a pupil as he slept in the school's sick bay.
Yesterday, a jury of 10 men and two women at Cork Circuit Criminal Court found Fr Tadhg O'Dalaigh (70) of Woodview, Mount Merrion Avenue, Blackrock, Dublin, guilty of indecently assaulting a pupil in the sick bay of Colaiste an Chroi Naofa, Carrignavar, Co Cork, on a date between March 1 and April 30, 1979. O'Dalaigh, who had pleaded guilty to five other separate charges earlier in the week, was remanded on continuing bail to appear for sentencing on October 31.
A PRIEST who was the Dean of Discipline at a Cork boarding school has been convicted of abusing a pupil as he slept in the school's sick bay.
Yesterday, a jury of 10 men and two women at Cork Circuit Criminal Court found Fr Tadhg O'Dalaigh (70) of Woodview, Mount Merrion Avenue, Blackrock, Dublin, guilty of indecently assaulting a pupil in the sick bay of Colaiste an Chroi Naofa, Carrignavar, Co Cork, on a date between March 1 and April 30, 1979. O'Dalaigh, who had pleaded guilty to five other separate charges earlier in the week, was remanded on continuing bail to appear for sentencing on October 31.
Friday, June 27, 2014
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Death records of children who died in Tuam / Sunday World
Death records of children who died in Tuam / Sunday World
Why would a 'mentally defective' die of malnutrition? Were certain babies 'allowed to die'.
We need answers
Why would a 'mentally defective' die of malnutrition? Were certain babies 'allowed to die'.
We need answers
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Bishops Talk Sex Abuse Complacency, Not Accountability at Annual Meeting / National Catholic Reporter | Voice of the Faithful ®
Bishops Talk Sex Abuse Complacency, Not Accountability at Annual Meeting / National Catholic Reporter | Voice of the Faithful ®
Yes the key word is ACCOUNTABILITY. Still avoiding it!
Yes the key word is ACCOUNTABILITY. Still avoiding it!
Thursday, June 12, 2014
State files removed from National Archive following mother and baby home revelations
State files removed from National Archive following mother and baby home revelations
Is this sinister? Questions need to be asked. where are all the files now!
Is this sinister? Questions need to be asked. where are all the files now!
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Taoiseach: If we don’t do this properly, Ireland’s soul will lie “in an unmarked grave”
Taoiseach: If we don’t do this properly, Ireland’s soul will lie “in an unmarked grave”
Ireland's 'soul' is no more!
Kenny made sure of that during his tenure. Hypocrite! Riding on the back of public anger is NOT edifying.
Ireland's 'soul' is no more!
Kenny made sure of that during his tenure. Hypocrite! Riding on the back of public anger is NOT edifying.
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
High death rate due to lack of antibiotics, says Sarto | Irish Examiner
High death rate due to lack of antibiotics, says Sarto | Irish Examiner
I'm not going to 'take sides' here but I well remember in 1974 -ish when I was a young student in social Work I did a 'placement' of approx. 2-3 weeks 'observation' in the slums of Dublin. and by God they WERE slums. Children ran around bare foot. No shoes.
The Nun who ran the social services to families and older people was a veritable SAINT! She loved everyone. and a religious brother (alcoholic) whom we called 'brother Brewery' also cared deeply though I did not really work with him. The Sister was my supervisor. I admired her greatly.
We were a very poor country in the 70's. There were no 'options' for girls. Many left to do nursing in England as I did.
I believe the mother and baby homes may well have been awful.
I did another placement with the Rotunda adoption society. I don't remember anyone being FORCED to give up their baby. We had meetings with young mothers around a kitchen table. support groups.
many signed babies over because there was NO CHOICE. Ireland would not accept socially, culturally, religiously, economically unmarried mothers. They had no jobs and welfare was almost non-existent. families did NOT take them in. The CATHOLIC ethos unmarried sex=sin was rife in state and church and families swallowed it hook, line and sinker.
Many years later I interviewed a woman for my PhD on 'clergy sexual abuse of adult women' and heard from a woman who said a priest came to the single mothers organisation and took her and her baby into his presbytery...only there to exploit her for sex. when she 'got out', he went and got another unmarried mother!
I'm not going to 'take sides' here but I well remember in 1974 -ish when I was a young student in social Work I did a 'placement' of approx. 2-3 weeks 'observation' in the slums of Dublin. and by God they WERE slums. Children ran around bare foot. No shoes.
The Nun who ran the social services to families and older people was a veritable SAINT! She loved everyone. and a religious brother (alcoholic) whom we called 'brother Brewery' also cared deeply though I did not really work with him. The Sister was my supervisor. I admired her greatly.
We were a very poor country in the 70's. There were no 'options' for girls. Many left to do nursing in England as I did.
I believe the mother and baby homes may well have been awful.
I did another placement with the Rotunda adoption society. I don't remember anyone being FORCED to give up their baby. We had meetings with young mothers around a kitchen table. support groups.
many signed babies over because there was NO CHOICE. Ireland would not accept socially, culturally, religiously, economically unmarried mothers. They had no jobs and welfare was almost non-existent. families did NOT take them in. The CATHOLIC ethos unmarried sex=sin was rife in state and church and families swallowed it hook, line and sinker.
Many years later I interviewed a woman for my PhD on 'clergy sexual abuse of adult women' and heard from a woman who said a priest came to the single mothers organisation and took her and her baby into his presbytery...only there to exploit her for sex. when she 'got out', he went and got another unmarried mother!
Monday, June 9, 2014
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Baby deaths: now Gardai probe the Tuam 'mass grave' - Independent.ie
Baby deaths: now Gardai probe the Tuam 'mass grave' - Independent.ie
I do NOT trust Gardaà to do proper investigation. The Local Gardaà appear to have already made 'downplaying' comments.
Bring in International experts on mass graves.
I do NOT trust Gardaà to do proper investigation. The Local Gardaà appear to have already made 'downplaying' comments.
Bring in International experts on mass graves.
Saturday, June 7, 2014
We’ve become indifferent to dead babies | Irish Examiner
We’ve become indifferent to dead babies | Irish Examiner
only when the world find out did we listen!
only when the world find out did we listen!
Tuam mother and baby home: the trouble with the septic tank story - Social Affairs & News from Ireland & Abroad | The Irish Times - Sat, Jun 07, 2014
Tuam mother and baby home: the trouble with the septic tank story - Social Affairs & News from Ireland & Abroad | The Irish Times - Sat, Jun 07, 2014
More care should be given to finding the truth.
More care should be given to finding the truth.
Friday, June 6, 2014
survivors speak
http://survivorsvoice-europe.org/?page_id=558
In Rome demonstrating ...survivors speak. I am amongst them.
In Rome demonstrating ...survivors speak. I am amongst them.
Thursday, June 5, 2014
Dutch Roman Catholic Church 'castrated at least 10 boys' - Telegraph
Dutch Roman Catholic Church 'castrated at least 10 boys' - Telegraph
Please share this utter depravity of the Catholic Church...
Please share this utter depravity of the Catholic Church...
'You became so frightened eventually you toed the line' | Irish Examiner
'You became so frightened eventually you toed the line' | Irish Examiner
mother and baby homes in Ireland - now under scrutiny. thank god
mother and baby homes in Ireland - now under scrutiny. thank god
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
International reaction to mother-and-baby home revelations - Social Affairs & News from Ireland & Abroad | The Irish Times - Wed, Jun 04, 2014
International reaction to mother-and-baby home revelations - Social Affairs & News from Ireland & Abroad | The Irish Times - Wed, Jun 04, 2014
So pleased this is getting the attention it deserves.
So pleased this is getting the attention it deserves.
'They all looked down on us' - man recalls heartbreak of Tuam mother and baby home - Independent.ie
'They all looked down on us' - man recalls heartbreak of Tuam mother and baby home - Independent.ie
a man says every child should have their father's name on Birth Certificate. Dead right...so that every child knows who abandoned them! For fathers got off scot free!
a man says every child should have their father's name on Birth Certificate. Dead right...so that every child knows who abandoned them! For fathers got off scot free!
Bodies Of 800 Children Were “Just Resting” In Mass Grave, Claims Catholic Church | Waterford Whispers News
Bodies Of 800 Children Were “Just Resting” In Mass Grave, Claims Catholic Church | Waterford Whispers News
They were just 'resting'. 'we always intended to bury them'...ffs what planet is this guy living in. It took a woman researcher to find out who these kids were in a sewer tank. A SEWER!
No 'FATHER' ...they were not 'RESTING' they were thrown out into a sewer tank.
outraged I am, outraged.
They were just 'resting'. 'we always intended to bury them'...ffs what planet is this guy living in. It took a woman researcher to find out who these kids were in a sewer tank. A SEWER!
No 'FATHER' ...they were not 'RESTING' they were thrown out into a sewer tank.
outraged I am, outraged.
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Monday, June 2, 2014
Galway historian reveals truth behind 800 orphans in mass grave - IrishCentral.com
Galway historian reveals truth behind 800 orphans in mass grave - IrishCentral.com
This is the awful truth of Ireland. How 800 children could be dumped in a septic tank rather than buried and given a gravestone.
800 children ...died often of malnutrition, neglect and plain poor care. They also suffered emotional abuse as they were 'shunned' as evil, the product of an evil mother (unmarried) .
No-one asks the questions 'where were the children's father?'
This is the awful truth of Ireland. How 800 children could be dumped in a septic tank rather than buried and given a gravestone.
800 children ...died often of malnutrition, neglect and plain poor care. They also suffered emotional abuse as they were 'shunned' as evil, the product of an evil mother (unmarried) .
No-one asks the questions 'where were the children's father?'
Friday, May 30, 2014
SNAP is wrong to discourage victims from meeting the pope | National Catholic Reporter
SNAP is wrong to discourage victims from meeting the pope | National Catholic Reporter
I have my reservations about victims/survivors meeting the Pope. However if they way they were CHOSEN changed I'd be a happier woman...
a sharing of power, a openness and transparency and no secrets.
I believe such a meeting could be beneficial but I do not like any such meeting billed as a 'healing' event which posits the victims as NEEDING HEALING FROM THE POPE! This is patronising and pathologising.
If the meeting is in the full control of the Vatican I would not be happy. I'd want to know that MY agenda was being heard and facilitated.
I have my reservations about victims/survivors meeting the Pope. However if they way they were CHOSEN changed I'd be a happier woman...
- Open invitation to all victim groups to send survivors...not just carefully chosen, vetted, safe, survivors!
- No gag clauses
- meeting openly attended by journalists who can be given some advice on how to report victims stories/views in safety...but no gag clauses for journalists.
- Survivors set the agenda, order of meeting and how meeting takes place. the POWER must reside with the victims
a sharing of power, a openness and transparency and no secrets.
I believe such a meeting could be beneficial but I do not like any such meeting billed as a 'healing' event which posits the victims as NEEDING HEALING FROM THE POPE! This is patronising and pathologising.
If the meeting is in the full control of the Vatican I would not be happy. I'd want to know that MY agenda was being heard and facilitated.
Thursday, May 29, 2014
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
‘It’s time to do something’ – The forgotten mass grave of 800 babies in Galway
‘It’s time to do something’ – The forgotten mass grave of 800 babies in Galway
mother and baby home. if the care had been better so many children's lives would have been saved.
mother and baby home. if the care had been better so many children's lives would have been saved.
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
‘It’s time to do something’ – The forgotten mass grave of 800 babies in Galway
‘It’s time to do something’ – The forgotten mass grave of 800 babies in Galway
The forgotten babies....and by extension their poor mothers. Share please.
The forgotten babies....and by extension their poor mothers. Share please.
Monday, May 26, 2014
Launch of Towards Peace spiritual support service | Irish Catholic Bishops' Conference
Launch of Towards Peace spiritual support service | Irish Catholic Bishops' Conference
We can revel in our victimhood...one statement from a Bishop that puts me right off this programme from the start. To even SUGGEST anyone 'revels in their victimhood' means they don't get it!
We can revel in our victimhood...one statement from a Bishop that puts me right off this programme from the start. To even SUGGEST anyone 'revels in their victimhood' means they don't get it!
Church launches new service for victims of abuse - Independent.ie
Church launches new service for victims of abuse - Independent.ie
Don't go! I really worry about this. Who are the 'faith counsellors'? Who trained them? what do they know about abuse and why is the Church even ASKING victims to 'forgive the Church?'
Don't go! I really worry about this. Who are the 'faith counsellors'? Who trained them? what do they know about abuse and why is the Church even ASKING victims to 'forgive the Church?'
Saturday, May 24, 2014
Friday, May 23, 2014
Accountability – For Whom?
Accountability – For Whom? a useful blog from the man who headed up the catholic church child protection in republic of Ireland....and had a tough time with church authorities!
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Friday, May 16, 2014
Priest deported after pleading guilty to abuse in Blue Earth | Star Tribune
Priest deported after pleading guilty to abuse in Blue Earth | Star Tribune
Why was he not jailed? Will he be shifted quietly into another parish in India!?
Why was he not jailed? Will he be shifted quietly into another parish in India!?
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Is the Association of Catholic Priests slipping back into clericalism? - Religious News & Affairs | The Irish Times - Tue, May 13, 2014
Is the Association of Catholic Priests slipping back into clericalism? - Religious News & Affairs | The Irish Times - Tue, May 13, 2014
It never got OUT of clericalism, it was masked for a while, now its back. Simple really. The clericalism is in their blood!
It never got OUT of clericalism, it was masked for a while, now its back. Simple really. The clericalism is in their blood!
Monday, May 12, 2014
Saturday, May 10, 2014
Thursday, May 8, 2014
Number of alleged victims in North Catholic abuse case up to 12 | TribLIVE
Number of alleged victims in North Catholic abuse case up to 12 | TribLIVE
The Marianists: an Order still in denial, that needs much more scrutiny.
The Marianists: an Order still in denial, that needs much more scrutiny.
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Fr Richard Loerhlein - Marianist
Fr Richard Loerhlein http://www.google.ie/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=2&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CDQQFjAB&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.marianist.com%2Farticles%2Floehrlein-richard-v8-08.pdf&ei=viZqU438D6SV7Aad24GQAg&usg=AFQjCNHdkvNo6j1G3XsmT04RWw01k5mB-g&sig2=vOaUFG60SELm9TpoI7UdSg
Is an alleged sexual abuser working in Africa. He belongs to the Marianist
Order . One of his victims received monetary compensation and there were others. He was sent to Africa after 'treatment'.
Why is this priest STILL in Africa.
Ask the questions - NOW
Is an alleged sexual abuser working in Africa. He belongs to the Marianist
Order . One of his victims received monetary compensation and there were others. He was sent to Africa after 'treatment'.
Why is this priest STILL in Africa.
Ask the questions - NOW
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Pope Francis sex abuse panel gets real on accountability protocols | National Catholic Reporter
Pope Francis sex abuse panel gets real on accountability protocols | National Catholic Reporter
I love how O'Malley says 'many people'....think it's an American problem! It was the Vatican who said this! not 'many people' (unidentified)
I love how O'Malley says 'many people'....think it's an American problem! It was the Vatican who said this! not 'many people' (unidentified)
Sunday, May 4, 2014
Ugandan Catholic Easter Message Calls for Genocide of Gays | O-blog-dee-o-blog-da
Ugandan Catholic Easter Message Calls for Genocide of Gays | O-blog-dee-o-blog-da
This is NOT the Church I ever belonged to or ever will go back to! This is NOT Christianity!
This is NOT the Church I ever belonged to or ever will go back to! This is NOT Christianity!
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Jason Berry - National Catholic Reporter The Independent News...
Jason Berry - National Catholic Reporter The Independent News...
excellent but what does this say for the commission into child abuse that pope francis has set up?
excellent but what does this say for the commission into child abuse that pope francis has set up?
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Records show that John Paul II could have intervened in abuse crisis - but didn't | National Catholic Reporter
Records show that John Paul II could have intervened in abuse crisis - but didn't | National Catholic Reporter
This is an important article, the day before the Vatican will slap the face of every clergy abuse survivor by canonising this man. A real real slap in the face and a dishonour to all those we value as TRUE saints!
And the ordinary Catholic has no say in this perverse 'joke'!
This is an important article, the day before the Vatican will slap the face of every clergy abuse survivor by canonising this man. A real real slap in the face and a dishonour to all those we value as TRUE saints!
And the ordinary Catholic has no say in this perverse 'joke'!
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Friday, April 11, 2014
Those who denied the truth of Christine Buckley’s story, silent since her death - Religious News & Affairs | The Irish Times - Tue, Apr 08, 2014
Those who denied the truth of Christine Buckley’s story, silent since her death - Religious News & Affairs | The Irish Times - Tue, Apr 08, 2014
Champion Irish Woman. May she Rest in Peace
Champion Irish Woman. May she Rest in Peace
Pope asks forgiveness for ‘evil’ of clerical child abuse - Social Affairs & News from Ireland & Abroad | The Irish Times - Fri, Apr 11, 2014
Pope asks forgiveness for ‘evil’ of clerical child abuse - Social Affairs & News from Ireland & Abroad | The Irish Times - Fri, Apr 11, 2014
On the one hand he apologises for quite a few priest abusers then (of course) minimizes this by immediately saying 'but of course few given the numbers of priests',,,,well he didn't HAVE to say this. The very fact he did just shows that the Church is STILL in denial.
In any case, not many victims want the Pope to 'apologise'...They want justice, or their files from Rome, or priests reported to police, or taken out of Africa or South America where sex offender priests are hidden/dumped...there's so much this Pope needs to do and APOLOGY is one of them
On the one hand he apologises for quite a few priest abusers then (of course) minimizes this by immediately saying 'but of course few given the numbers of priests',,,,well he didn't HAVE to say this. The very fact he did just shows that the Church is STILL in denial.
In any case, not many victims want the Pope to 'apologise'...They want justice, or their files from Rome, or priests reported to police, or taken out of Africa or South America where sex offender priests are hidden/dumped...there's so much this Pope needs to do and APOLOGY is one of them
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Sunday, April 6, 2014
BBC Radio 4 - Sunday
BBC Radio 4 - Sunday
Listen to Archbishop Nichols from the UK on the Sunday Programme this morning . previously 'in charge' of Child protection when Bishop in Birmingham.
His tenure was less than honourable but 'THE TRUTH' is not OUT - yet.
Here what a woman writes after listening to him:
Listen to Archbishop Nichols from the UK on the Sunday Programme this morning . previously 'in charge' of Child protection when Bishop in Birmingham.
His tenure was less than honourable but 'THE TRUTH' is not OUT - yet.
Here what a woman writes after listening to him:
It seems to me that if the Vatican wishes to explore the dynamics of human trafficking and exploitation of the vulnerable it should include in its considerations the role played by the most powerful transglobal institutions, the Catholic Church in trafficking sex offenders around the world to exploit and abuse the most vulnerable, women and children. The Church moved sex offenders across countries, continents and the world where they were able to harvest women, men and children in Catholic institutions; schools, convents, seminaries, hospitals, parish churches. . . Let the Vatican count the numbers of children, women and the vulnerable exploited by its officers worldwide.
Let the Catholic Church count the children taken from poor, young and vulnerable women in Ireland, England, Spain, South America, Africa . . . and trafficked across the world and within countries to be sold to wealthy Catholic families who could bring them up as ‘good Catholics’.
The Cardinal sounded hypocritical and less than authentic this morning. He hesitated and then turned away from confronting the Government with the truth on its pernicious welfare ‘reforms’ which are designed to punish the poorest in our society for the sins of the wealthiest. The Cardinal betrayed the poor by his moral cowardice as he was announcing the launch of a joint initiative for the poor in England with Archbishop Welby. ABC can only be tarnished by such associations.
Cardinal Nichols has caused great harm to many victims of abuse perpetrated within Catholic institutions in this country; he continues to refuse to meet with and respond to organisations working with survivors, preferring to vilify and deny them and call them mad, evil and liars. He has done nothing to shed any light on why Irish sex offenders were sent to this country to continue abusing children within the Catholic church, or why the Archdiocese of Birmingham trafficked sex offenders to America, Africa and Australia when reports of abuse were made and police began investigating, and why the Archdiocese continued to pay them monthly for decades. Cardinal Nichols has done nothing to ease the suffered of the many thousands abused and exploited by clergy and members of religious communities in this country.
Let us see actions rather than words, and a focus on here and now and the injustices and harm caused within the Catholic Church, rather than on someone else’s problems ‘over there’ which the Cardinal continues to pontificate about as if some kind of expert, which he clearly isn’t.
Alana
Friday, April 4, 2014
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Commission hearings' trail of collateral devastation - Eureka Street
Commission hearings' trail of collateral devastation - Eureka Street
A very good piece. Dysfunctionality of the Church. MEGA I'd say.
A very good piece. Dysfunctionality of the Church. MEGA I'd say.
Monday, March 31, 2014
Preventing child abuse must outweigh fears about Catholic Church - Social Affairs & News from Ireland & Abroad | The Irish Times - Mon, Mar 31, 2014
Preventing child abuse must outweigh fears about Catholic Church - Social Affairs & News from Ireland & Abroad | The Irish Times - Mon, Mar 31, 2014
Marie Collins speaks about being the only survivor on Vatican commission.
Good Luck Marie...you are going to need it! You have my support.
Marie Collins speaks about being the only survivor on Vatican commission.
Good Luck Marie...you are going to need it! You have my support.
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Irish abuse protesters complain at treatment by Vatican police
Irish abuse protesters complain at treatment by Vatican police
Just a reminder of 2010 when myself & Brendan Butler were 'detained' in St Peter's square. This in light of new Vatican commission on child abuse
Just a reminder of 2010 when myself & Brendan Butler were 'detained' in St Peter's square. This in light of new Vatican commission on child abuse
Italy's bishops pass Vatican-backed rule that child molestation does not have to be reported - Europe - World - The Independent
Italy's bishops pass Vatican-backed rule that child molestation does not have to be reported - Europe - World - The Independent
Very counter to new Vatican commission....are we dealing with two-faced Vatican policies. worrying and alarming and DOES NOT bode well for commission which I still think a waste of time, but ....well I was going to say 'but I'm trying to be hopeful'. But I'm a doubting Thomas. SHOW me real ACTION and I'll believe in it.
Very counter to new Vatican commission....are we dealing with two-faced Vatican policies. worrying and alarming and DOES NOT bode well for commission which I still think a waste of time, but ....well I was going to say 'but I'm trying to be hopeful'. But I'm a doubting Thomas. SHOW me real ACTION and I'll believe in it.
British paper suspends writer who looked forward to Benedict's death :: Catholic News Agency (CNA)
British paper suspends writer who looked forward to Benedict's death :: Catholic News Agency (CNA)
not the first person to call benedict a 'rat', many survivors of abuse do so as well.
not the first person to call benedict a 'rat', many survivors of abuse do so as well.
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Church faces two dangers on safeguarding children - Social Affairs & News from Ireland & Abroad | The Irish Times - Sat, Mar 29, 2014
Church faces two dangers on safeguarding children - Social Affairs & News from Ireland & Abroad | The Irish Times - Sat, Mar 29, 2014
This is a quite shocking assertion; that the appointment of Marie Collins to the Vatican commission is to
'be taken as acknowledgement of the role taken by Diarmuid Martin in combating child abuse'
Marie Collins was CHOSEN, not Diarmuid Martin. She was chosen for who SHE is, not for what Diarmuid Martin did.
This is, in my view an insult to Marie Collins, a survivor of Clergy Sexual Abuse, who in her own right challenged the Church and made changes. SHE made changes.
But for survivors NONE of our Church leaders who have done anything.
To so blatantly deny the role of survivors in challenging the Church and to ascribe Marie Collins appointment as an 'acknowledgement of Diarmuid Martin combating child abuse' is unbelievable.
This is a quite shocking assertion; that the appointment of Marie Collins to the Vatican commission is to
'be taken as acknowledgement of the role taken by Diarmuid Martin in combating child abuse'
Marie Collins was CHOSEN, not Diarmuid Martin. She was chosen for who SHE is, not for what Diarmuid Martin did.
This is, in my view an insult to Marie Collins, a survivor of Clergy Sexual Abuse, who in her own right challenged the Church and made changes. SHE made changes.
But for survivors NONE of our Church leaders who have done anything.
To so blatantly deny the role of survivors in challenging the Church and to ascribe Marie Collins appointment as an 'acknowledgement of Diarmuid Martin combating child abuse' is unbelievable.
George Pell: Vatican said enemies of the church made abuse allegations
George Pell: Vatican said enemies of the church made abuse allegations
Now we know the views of the VATICAN
Now we know the views of the VATICAN
Child sexual abuse and the churches: A story of moral failure? – Opinion – ABC Religion & Ethics (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
Child sexual abuse and the churches: A story of moral failure? – Opinion – ABC Religion & Ethics (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
an interesting lecture giving some stats comparing catholic church priest offenders and Anglican priest offenders...and other issues.
an interesting lecture giving some stats comparing catholic church priest offenders and Anglican priest offenders...and other issues.
Friday, March 28, 2014
George Pell Australia evidence to royal commission
Pell, is now moving to Rome, (where they bring all their Cardinals/Archbishops/Bishops - to reward them for the 'fine' work for The Church) . However see his testimony from 24th and 26th March http://www.childabuseroyalcommission.gov.au/
Here he ADMITS 'The Church' took precedence over a victim.
and now Rome rewards him and sets up it's own Commission. As one Australia posted 'thank God Pell wasn't chosen to be on it".
Here he ADMITS 'The Church' took precedence over a victim.
and now Rome rewards him and sets up it's own Commission. As one Australia posted 'thank God Pell wasn't chosen to be on it".
Church watchdog denies omissions in abuse report - Independent.ie
Church watchdog denies omissions in abuse report - Independent.ie
This is Ireland! The guy who did so much Ian Elliott now challenging from outside.
This is what happens when the Church has the alleged 'responsibility for safeguarding'. In the UK under Eileen Shearer The Church Safeguarding board published annual reports given statistics (not always accurate - but a start) the she left 'for personal reasons' and a lay man , (Church lackey to most of us survivors) took over. He never liked us survivors and chose to endlessly rebuff us. When Cumberlege did her review of Nolan she 'gave back ' responsibility to Bishops to run the show. Since then there has been ever LESS transparency, not more! and the annual 'reports' give little information. Transparency mean 'economy with the Truth' for the Catholic church.
And this all comes out as Rome sets up a commission on child abuse! The startling reality of what is happening on the ground is either NOT seen by Rome or condoned. They have a huge job if Diocese such as here in Ireland or in Australia (see Pell's testimony to Royal Commission in Australia'). Rome needs to call these guys to account but won't because they say each Cardinal/Archbishop/bishop rules independently of Rome!
If that is the case 'what point Rome?'
This is Ireland! The guy who did so much Ian Elliott now challenging from outside.
This is what happens when the Church has the alleged 'responsibility for safeguarding'. In the UK under Eileen Shearer The Church Safeguarding board published annual reports given statistics (not always accurate - but a start) the she left 'for personal reasons' and a lay man , (Church lackey to most of us survivors) took over. He never liked us survivors and chose to endlessly rebuff us. When Cumberlege did her review of Nolan she 'gave back ' responsibility to Bishops to run the show. Since then there has been ever LESS transparency, not more! and the annual 'reports' give little information. Transparency mean 'economy with the Truth' for the Catholic church.
And this all comes out as Rome sets up a commission on child abuse! The startling reality of what is happening on the ground is either NOT seen by Rome or condoned. They have a huge job if Diocese such as here in Ireland or in Australia (see Pell's testimony to Royal Commission in Australia'). Rome needs to call these guys to account but won't because they say each Cardinal/Archbishop/bishop rules independently of Rome!
If that is the case 'what point Rome?'
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Child sex abuse royal commission: George Pell publicly apologises to victim John Ellis - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
Child sex abuse royal commission: George Pell publicly apologises to victim John Ellis - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
hypocrite - he can do this just as he swanny's off to Rome! disgusting.
hypocrite - he can do this just as he swanny's off to Rome! disgusting.
Rein in the Archbishop! advice to vatican commission
Sent by Peter Isley of SNAP USA
Veteran reporter Marie Rohde in the National Catholic Reporter writing today about the so-called “treatment fund” being proposed by the Archdiocese of Milwaukee to the bankruptcy court, which, if approved, would grant Archbishop Listecki’s hand-picked “doctor” virtually complete control over the mental health treatment to be dripped out to survivors of childhood sexual assault by clergy. The fund is being proposed as a way of denying compensating victims for their injuries. ... So the organization which caused the trauma and committed the fraud which has landed them in federal court should be put in control of the treatment contracts and costs of the people they harmed? Hilariously, as inferred by the archdiocese, they need to be put in charge of the fund so as to prevent its fraudulent use by victims seeking help. With 575 cases of fraud filed against them for covering up for child molesters, I guess the archdiocese is, in fact, quite knowledgeable about fraud. Dr. Terry Young, who Listecki wants to operate the fund, has no documented experience or background whatsoever in the field of sexual trauma or working with survivors. Young lists on his website and blog 10 focus areas of practice. None of them have to do with sexual abuse. There is not even one posting on his blog about the topic. He does, however, list “priestly formation” as one of his specialties, teaches at Marquette, and offers his psychological services from a “Christian” perspective. Young tells NCR he “was not selected for his beliefs.” Why else, then? That he does not say.
Veteran reporter Marie Rohde in the National Catholic Reporter writing today about the so-called “treatment fund” being proposed by the Archdiocese of Milwaukee to the bankruptcy court, which, if approved, would grant Archbishop Listecki’s hand-picked “doctor” virtually complete control over the mental health treatment to be dripped out to survivors of childhood sexual assault by clergy. The fund is being proposed as a way of denying compensating victims for their injuries. ... So the organization which caused the trauma and committed the fraud which has landed them in federal court should be put in control of the treatment contracts and costs of the people they harmed? Hilariously, as inferred by the archdiocese, they need to be put in charge of the fund so as to prevent its fraudulent use by victims seeking help. With 575 cases of fraud filed against them for covering up for child molesters, I guess the archdiocese is, in fact, quite knowledgeable about fraud. Dr. Terry Young, who Listecki wants to operate the fund, has no documented experience or background whatsoever in the field of sexual trauma or working with survivors. Young lists on his website and blog 10 focus areas of practice. None of them have to do with sexual abuse. There is not even one posting on his blog about the topic. He does, however, list “priestly formation” as one of his specialties, teaches at Marquette, and offers his psychological services from a “Christian” perspective. Young tells NCR he “was not selected for his beliefs.” Why else, then? That he does not say.
NCR story here: http://ncronline.org/news/accountability/survivors-supporters-voice-concerns-over-milwaukees-bankruptcy-reorganization
Earlier SNAP statement here: http://03409bc.netsolhost.com/snapwisconsin/2014/03/06/federal-judge-asked-to-approve-therapy-plan-requiring-victims-to-disclose-confidential-treatment-records-to-archdiocese/
Earlier SNAP statement here: http://03409bc.netsolhost.com/snapwisconsin/2014/03/06/federal-judge-asked-to-approve-therapy-plan-requiring-victims-to-disclose-confidential-treatment-records-to-archdiocese/
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Vatican Commission on Child Sexual Abuse
Vatican Commission on Child Sexual
Abuse
‘Being Positive- Building Trust’
My first
‘reaction’ to this commission was a gut wrenching ‘oh no!’, a visceral feeling
of ‘not again’. This stems from my 25
years ‘working with’ the Catholic Church in the UK first with CSSA (Christian
Survivors of Sexual Abuse) which I set up and then with MACSAS – Minister and Clergy
Sexual Abuse Survivors, which I also set up.
As a
committed Catholic when I set up CSSA in 1989 I focused on meeting Bishops and
those in ‘authority’ who could listen to what victims of abuse were saying. In
1989 I had the privilege of having as my Bishop, Bishop Victor Guazzeli, in
East London. He was naïve about the
issues but tried to ‘reach out’. Coming to our first survivor conference, attending
our first survivor’s liturgies and generally being a kind and supportive Bishop.
It was he who facilitated with Cardinal
Hume that CSSA have an interdenominational National Service in Westminster Cathedral in September
1994. This service, entitled ‘Why Do You Weep’ was the
first and last of it’s kind in a Catholic Cathedral. It was written by survivors for survivors. All the Bishops
present and Cardinal Hume were in the front row of the cathedral congregation,
whilst we, survivors, wrote and produced a beautiful service. Only WE were on
the sanctuary. 600 people attended.
About this
time Bishop Budd in Plymouth was spearheading policies for safeguarding
children (this before Nolan). After the Nolan Commission; to which CSSA survivors
contributed and gave evidence a safeguarding team was set up with Eileen
Shearer, a child protection specialist as head. CSSA was often in communication
with Eileen, often on committees, often sharing our situation. Eileen had full
communication with us.
Then she
resigned, ostensibly for ‘personal reasons’.
After this a lay man took over and thereafter communication with CSSA
was ceased.
All this
time I remained a solid Catholic, I was Eucharistic Minister, Catechist for
first communions, was secretary to my Church SVP conference and President of
another SVP conference for Deaf People. I was in a full time work as a social
worker and lecturer. So I was an active Catholic survivor. Very active.
However as
CSSA’s was repeatedly rebuffed and battered in our attempts to communicate with
the Church officials my heart and love for ‘Church’ diminished. Not my faith, my faith was very strong, and
remains so today.
This got
worse when MACSAS – ‘Minister & Clergy Sexual abuse Survivors’ was
formed. We never set out on an
adversarial route. We always wanted a
‘working relationship’ but it was simply a steel door defensive position which
we could not break through. Everything we said was perceived as ‘attacking’ the
Church.
Victims of
Clergy sexual abuse came to us with horrendous stories of what can only be
described as disgraceful behaviour from the Church officials. Who took a
position of denying allegations, refusing to meet victims and when they did
humiliating them or frightening them , even emotionally ‘blackmailing them’
that they would ‘destroy the Church’, ‘destroy a priest’, ‘destroy their own
family…’, victims were made to feel THEY were the cause of such a terrible act
and even worse was complaining about it.
After years
of hearing victims stories and years of attempting to be on working parties and
groups, we decided collectively the Church Hierarchy had really no intent on
allowing us ‘in’ in any shape or form. Facing what was going on was simply a
non-starter.
This is why
I react with scepticism to the Vatican Commission. If victims could not be heard locally how can
they be heard at the ‘head office’ so to speak?
But I have
always wanted MY Church to do better. I
have longed to see change; longed to see victims loved and supported. So I
cannot, if my own faith means anything, deny that there might be something
about to happen.
But if truth
be told…this has to be proven. I am like
doubting Thomas…show me…show me…
I feel for
Marie Collins, the only victim-survivor commission member. Many survivors are already arguing “she
doesn’t represent us”, others saying “Great Marie, tell them to do this, that
…”, while she is lauded as being almost single headedly likely to achieve what most victims groups worldwide have
not, after 30 years, managed to achieve – i.e. change the way the Church treats
victims. This is a terrible burden.
Because I
respect and admire Marie Collins I hope not to burden her with any such
expectations. Precisely because I know how hard her task is going to be.
But can I
offer anything in my ‘sceptical mood’; can I help at all?
I decided
one thing I could do was encapsulate as best I can what victims seem to want of
the Church Hierarchy.
·
Who
takes the centre stage?
·
Humility
·
Truth
·
Honesty
·
Transparency
·
Accountability
·
Reparation
·
Action
·
Pastoral
Care
Who takes the centre stage?
It must be shown that the person at
the centre is the victim. Not ‘the church’, not ‘the Pope’, not ‘the Vatican’,
not clergy, not Bishops, not Cardinals, not the commission members.
Victims must have input to the
commission. Victims must be heard. The Pope should invite survivor groups to
Rome. We should sit around the table of Rome, we should tell Pope Francis the
pain we feel and the harm done. The
‘father’ of our Church must become ‘mother’. With a nurturing and willingness
to bear that pain we will bring. Victims should be centre stage.
Humility
This, of course requires humility,
the humility Jesus showed, the respect Jesus showed. Power must diminish in our
presence. Victims must express their anger, hurt and pain in Rome. Not just one
victim, but many.
In 2010, 200+ victims were corralled by armed
paratroopers and prevented from entering St Peters, some who individually
‘escaped’ and entered St Peters were surrounded, detained and passports removed
for over an hour. I was one of them. Sitting in my wheelchair in St Peter’s,
freezing cold, for over an hour, surrounded by intimidating police, I looked at
St Peters and could not find Jesus. My
heart sank so very low that day.
This shames Rome. The whole of St
Peters should be filled with victims. We should be invited to Rome, we should
be there….
Truth
There can be
no movement unless Rome through this commission somehow demonstrates, and by
that I mean, proves, it is telling ‘The Truth’. Victims, solicitors, courts and
enquiries have all experienced and can document, prevarication, lies, cover-up,
movement of offender clergy, destroying of files and a deliberate effort by
Church Hierarchy to hide the TRUTH.
It is going
to be a monumental task to persuade us that now, in the year of the Lord, 2014
that ‘Truth’ will at last prevail.
So how can
the commission begin? At the very outset the commission must confess this lack
of truth. There must be a firm ‘confession’ to the people who have been
directly harmed that they, the Church Hierarchy, covered-up.
No more
excuses, no more denial. When every statement is pre-fixed with “we didn’t
understand sexual abuse in those days”, or “we are on a steep learning curve”,
or “this was a long time ago”; we hear denial, a lack of admission/confession
of ‘The Truth’. The rhetoric will have to change.
Unless this
‘confession’ is made, then victims will know that ‘Truth’ is being compromised
and trust cannot be built.
Honesty
This is, of
course, how Truth will be heard. Honesty requires a deep commitment to Truth. A
deep belief that NOTHING can be, should be, will be, hidden. The commission
must ensure that all ‘lies’ of the past be confessed as a way of proving a
renewal of ‘honesty’. There can be no dialogue without honesty.
Transparency
The
commission cannot work knowing that files of alleged clergy sex offenders are
under wraps in Rome. It cannot work knowing that there are still clergy sex
offenders in Ministry, (many in foreign deprived areas of the world, such as
Africa, the Philippines, and South America).
Every
‘hidden’ clergy sex offender must be brought back for full investigation.
Every
Vatican held ‘secret’ file must be given to solicitors, police and victims who
are taking civil action.
The
commission’s deliberations, recommendations or any advice will not bear fruit
on a barren tree. The Tree of Rome is
not healthy, not alive, whilst the poison of secrecy fertilises its roots.
Accountability
The
acknowledgement that Truth was not paramount in the past must be joined with
accountability. Those who held the
secrets, forced the secrets, denied the truth, hid sex offenders, moved sex
offenders, denied reports from victims, threatened victims, intimidated
victims, frightened victims must be held to account. They must go. A clean sweep of the ‘stench’ of cover-up
must be visible and thorough. Nothing short of this will allow the Commission
to achieve goals of change.
Furthermore
every hidden clergy sex offender must be brought to account. Every clergy
sexual offender must never be allowed back into ministry. There can be no room
to allow ‘risk’ to another child. Even if perceived ‘small’, this is risk. No risk is the bottom line.
Reparation
Now is the
time to consider victims as ‘centre of the stage’. The Church must show its
full aims and objectives are entirely focused on the victim. This means the
Church must reconsider every court case that has been taken and fought (often
viciously and harmfully against the victim) despite them knowing a priest was, in Truth, a sex offender.
It must
cease these legal shenanigans, these farcical charades which are only designed
to humiliate victims and save the Church.
If there is
credible evidence a priest was/is a sex offender than reparation is due.
Period.
Action
‘By your
actions you will be known’. ‘Action not words’
ACTION has
been delayed…for too long have victims laboured for ACTION.
Words of
condemnation or promises of Action; are not enough.
Services and
apologies are not enough.
It’s time to
DO what needs to be done. The commission must not delay. Time is of the essence
both for protecting children and reparation for victims.
Too many
victims have committed suicide, died or given up under the onslaught of Church
in-action.
There’s no
denying ‘safeguarding of Children’ within the Church is better than it ever
was. However now’s the time for Victims
to be ‘centre stage’. Their needs are paramount too.
Pastoral Care
Many victims
have left the Church. We no longer
attend. Sometimes this means faith in God has been lost, sometimes faith in God
is still strong (my case) but we are ‘homeless’ because of the hurt. This does
not mean the Church can abandon them. They are still the responsibility of the
Church.
I was not
abused by a Catholic Priest, my sister was. I was abused as a child by a family
member, we were Mass going, practicing Catholics. When I went to a priest to
talk about my childhood as an adult, the pastoral care I received from Catholic
Priests was humiliating, judgemental, blaming.
Though I sought help when an adult woman, I blamed
for being abused when I was 12.
So Pastoral
care of ALL victims of Child Sexual Abuse must be ‘Christ-like’, ‘affirming’,
‘caring’ and non-exploitive.
My Doctorate
research on ‘Clergy sexual abuse of adult women’ (2009) found Catholic Clergy
deliberately choosing and manipulating adult victims of child sexual abuse into
sexual contact with the priest they sought help from.
Research
shows nuns at the mercy of marauding Catholic priests worldwide.
If the
commission is to have value then ALL sex offending by clergy needs to be
addressed.
For every
person who seeks pastoral care
from a clergyman must be safe.
Pastoral
Care therefore must have policies and procedures guaranteeing safety from
sexual exploitation, safety from emotional harm, physical harm, financial harm
and spiritual harm.
That is the task of the Church.
There is a
lot more I could add but this is written from my heart. As a way of trying to envisage ‘light at the
end of the tunnel’. Trying not to be
negative. Trying to HOPE that the hour
and the day has come.
I will do
everything I can to support Marie Collins. I know she will be doing her best on
the Commission. I trust her heart.
Now it’s up
to the commission to allow me and others trust their hearts.
Dr Margaret Kennedy PhD
Magsken57@gmail.com Tel: 0868786937
Author of
‘The Courage to Tell’ - CTBI 1999
Founder of
CSSA & MACSAS (UK)
Doctoral
Thesis ‘The Well from Which We Drink is Poisoned – Clergy Sexual Exploitation
of Adult Women ‘
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