Shaken by Scandals: Catholics Speak Out About Priests' Sexual Abuse

Rating:
Summary: Fidelity to the Church is the way out of the scandals
Review: This book differs from other books about the scandals in the Church in that it is a collection of essays, rather than one work by one author. As such, it covers a wide range of scandal-related topics from a wide range of views.

The basic view undergirding all of the others is that all Catholics face a renewed call to holiness. Beyond this, there may be some differences among the authors, but basically all agree that this is no time for the Catholic Church to be talking about changes in Her teachings and practices. The proper remedy for these scandals is for all Catholics, but especially priests and bishops, to be faithful to the Church's teachings. No one can argue that these scandals were created by priests who embraced celibacy joyfully and who protected it jealously!

Although all of the essays are good, a few stand out. Gregory K. Popcak's essay on how to help a victim of abuse offers much-needed guidance for a difficult problem. Mark Shea's essay offers a possible reason that the pope hasn't removed offending bishops - and whether you find yourself agreeing or not, it is a compelling argument. Fr. Mitchell Pacwa asks the reader to consider the effects of these scandals on innocent priests. Finally, Kristine L. Franklin offers helpful advice on how to discuss the scandal with children.

I join the authors of these essays in looking forward to happier days in the Church after this period of painful purification, and I thank God that many faithful Catholics are making their voices heard.

Rating:
Summary: Fidelity to the Church is the way out of the scandals
Review: This book differs from other books about the scandals in the Church in that it is a collection of essays, rather than one work by one author. As such, it covers a wide range of scandal-related topics from a wide range of views.

The basic view undergirding all of the others is that all Catholics face a renewed call to holiness. Beyond this, there may be some differences among the authors, but basically all agree that this is no time for the Catholic Church to be talking about changes in Her teachings and practices. The proper remedy for these scandals is for all Catholics, but especially priests and bishops, to be faithful to the Church's teachings. No one can argue that these scandals were created by priests who embraced celibacy joyfully and who protected it jealously!

Although all of the essays are good, a few stand out. Gregory K. Popcak's essay on how to help a victim of abuse offers much-needed guidance for a difficult problem. Mark Shea's essay offers a possible reason that the pope hasn't removed offending bishops - and whether you find yourself agreeing or not, it is a compelling argument. Fr. Mitchell Pacwa asks the reader to consider the effects of these scandals on innocent priests. Finally, Kristine L. Franklin offers helpful advice on how to discuss the scandal with children.

I join the authors of these essays in looking forward to happier days in the Church after this period of painful purification, and I thank God that many faithful Catholics are making their voices heard.