UNITED STATES
The Intelligencer
By Gema Maria Duarte, STAFF WRITER
Among American Catholics, the clergy sex abuse scandal is the major issue facing the church. So when Pope Francis addressed the issue Sunday during his visit to Philadelphia, many were satisfied the church is moving in the right direction.
“His words hold weight, indeed an extra weight seeing that they come directly from him,” said the Rev. Thomas Dailey, director of the Salesian Center for Faith & Culture at DeSales University in Lehigh County.
After meeting with five abuse victims Sunday, the pontiff said all victims are precious children of God who should always expect the church’s protection, care and love. Francis said he was profoundly sorry that their innocence was violated by those they trusted.
“In all circumstances, the betrayal was a terrible violation of human dignity,” he said.
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