Catholic Church

By Philip Lawler, First Things - The impatient demands for a full account of the abuse scandals have now been linked to questions about Francis's leadership. Elected with a clear mandate for reform, especially on the sex-abuse question, the pontiff has failed to match strong statements with effective actions. Now Archbishop Viganò's testimony casts into doubt the pope’s professed commitment to rid the Church of predatory clerics.

By Thomas J. Olmsted, Bishop of Phoenix - “I have known Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò for 39 years. We became colleagues in the Secretariat of State of the Holy See in August 1979, where he had been serving prior to my entrance into this work in service to the ministry of Pope John Paul II…. I ask that Archbishop Viganò’s testimony be taken seriously by all, and that every claim that he makes be investigated thoroughly. Many innocent people have been seriously harmed by clerics like Archbishop McCarrick; whoever has covered up these shameful acts must be brought to the light of day.”

By Birgit Jones, Catholic Stand - Like many other Catholics, I am not always quite sure how to spend an hour with Jesus. Western culture has formed us to be productive, not to “waste” time alone in silence. Since we are uncomfortable as we sit before the tabernacle, it is difficult to discern a clear plan of action… After a few searches through various Catholic sources, I created a short list of options for my own use…. My intention is simply to solidify a plan for my analytical self and share it with others as a suggestion.

By Msgr. Charles Pope, National Catholic Register - This most recent storm — which began even before the Grand Jury Report — and the strong reaction among Catholics has caught many bishops off guard. It has served to highlight many structural problems in the Church which have given rise to the justifiable anger of so many. This cauldron did not suddenly boil over. It has been simmering for years — decades, really.