AUSTRALIA
ABC News
By Lucy Martin
The Archbishop of Perth Timothy Costelloe has issued a public apology for the Catholic Church’s failure to recognise and prevent the sexual abuse of children.
In an open letter to 100 parishes and the wider community, Archbishop Costelloe says he is sorry the abuse happened and ashamed that some church leaders did not adequately respond to allegations.
“The key message of the letter is really to acknowledge the terrible suffering of people who have been victims of sexual abuse by clergy and other church workers,” he said.
“I really do feel ashamed of the actions of those who betrayed everything the church stands for.
“The words that I said are words that most Catholics would carry in their hearts I’m sure.”
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