Statement from Chilean abuse victims

CHILE
Crux

By Crux Staff
March 20, 2015

Crux received the following statement from three men abused by Chilean priest Fernando Karadima.

Our Statement Regarding the Appointment of Bishop Barros and the Responsibility of Pope Francis

Since his election we have put all our hope in Pope Francis. We have been encouraged by his words about sexual abuse when he told bishops: “We must continue to do everything possible to eradicate the plague of child sexual abuse in the church and open a path of reconciliation and healing for those who have suffered.” Furthermore: “Diocesan and superiors of congregations must verify that parishes and church institutions ensure the safety of children and vulnerable adults.”

We know that the appointment of bishops is something Pope Francis takes very seriously. However, people in Chile and throughout the world are disappointed because of the appointment of Bishop Juan Barros as head…