ROME
Rome Reports
[with video]
2017-05-20
When a bishop receives news of an alleged sex abuse case, some may be surprised to know there is a process when handling each case.
MIGUEL YAÑEZ
Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors
“When this large number of cases exploded in some countries in the Church, in my opinion the greatest indignation was not only the existence of these cases, but the mismanagement by the leaders of the Church. I think that point is a point that is changing. Today there are some clear rules about what a bishop or religious superior must do when he receives a complaint from a victim.”
FR. JUSTIN WACHS
Canon Lawyer
“When a bishop receives an accusation, he’s going to do everything he can to make himself or his staff available to receive the alleged victim’s story and denunciation of the cleric: the priest or deacon or maybe even a bishop. That’s not an easy moment because that person usually comes hurting. It’s a very challenging moment.”
The first step is to question the truth and credibility of the case and reliability of the persons involved. There should be a clear statement of compliance with both civil and Church authorities, and requirements and neutrality in order to investigate the matter.
Once the bishop receives the news, he begins the process of the preliminary investigation, gathering all evidence from both sides. He must act quickly, but not react to the case without listening and considering both sides.
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