Tainted by numerous cases of sexual abuse in the Church, the Vatican organized a historical symposium on the subject.

Since February 6, 2012, representatives of bishops' conferences around the world and the general superiors of congregations are participating in this extraordinary meeting in Rome.

Concrete answers

Several solutions are proposed to restore the integrity of today's Church and heal inflicted injuries.

Since last May, for example, the Bishops of the world were ordered by the Vatican Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith to develop, within a year, different strategies to fight against pedophilia, in accordance with the requirements of Rome and to collaborate with civil justice. (Reference in French)

This symposium, organized by the Gregorian Jesuit University, is a step to help the bishops' conferences to meet this deadline, by providing clear guidance and information. (Reference in French)

Another new feature is the "e-Learning" training center on Internet that will guide priests and religious leaders by providing information on pedophilia and ways to respond, as well as protection of childhood.

Zero Tolerance

Last Wednesday, Monsignor Charles Scicluna, attorney for the Vatican, was unequivocal about pedophilia in the Church: "We can not deny a victim that his case be reviewed fairly, by hiding behind technical complexities of the law" he advocated. "Bad intentions and negligence in the performance of this duty is a crime under Canon Law," he said. (Reference in French)

For some, addressing this problematic situation comes a little late. However, taking this new look on the problem remains an historical act of openness and dialogue on the part of the Church in its effort to heal the wounds of the past, and thereby, avoid repeating the same mistakes.

For more information on the subject:

Radio-Vatican (in French)

Google Actualités (in French)

Journal La Croix (in French)