Faith and the Law Thrown into Question

Herald Sun
July 18, 2012

www.heraldsun.com.au/opinion/faith-and-the-law-thrown-into-question/story-e6frfhqo-1226428503115

AS reported in today's Herald Sun, the sanctity of the confessional is being thrown open to question by Victoria's parliamentary inquiry into child sex abuse.

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The possibility that priests may be forced to disclose such crimes will be seen by the Catholic Church as a betrayal of a sacred trust between priest and confessor.

Others will see it as a serious community responsibility.

Potential witnesses to the inquiry have been told to consider whether such admissions be subject to mandatory reporting by priests.

The inquiry has been prompted by the sex abuse cases brought against priests of various denominations.

Another aspect of the inquiry is the possibility of new laws that would see bishops face criminal charges if they fail to report the misconduct of priests.

These are issues that will disturb and confront many Victorians. The public debate will be challenging and goes to the very heart of people's religious beliefs.

It is an issue the Herald Sun will follow closely.