ITALY - Victims have mixed view of Vatican O'Brien probe
Even a tiny bit of progress beats no progress at all. And any acknowledgement, however slight, that Catholic officials have hurt others can bring a small bit of comfort to the wounded.
In that sense, we're glad this investigation has been announced. At the same time, however, we believe that every person who may have seen, suspected or suffered Cardinal O'Brien's misconduct should report first to law enforcement authorities. It may seem, initially, that no criminal charges are likely. But in recent years, secular authorities have slowly begun to be more creative and aggressive in pursuing sexual predators, even those who hurt adults and even years later.
And we recall, with deep sadness and frustration, another Vatican probe of a high profile cleric who was a serial offender - Fr. Marcial Maciel. That investigation took years and years, despite multiple credible accusers, and resulted in a very tepid, belated and oblique 'admonition,' which enabled many of Maciel's backers to continue to believe in his alleged innocence. So announcing a Vatican investigation is easy. Making sure it's fair, thorough and results (if the evidence warrants it) in a harsh penalty that will deter future wrongdoing by others is apparently hard.
Finally, Catholic officials will often make impressive promises when public pressure is mounting. The real test is how they act once public attention wanes. We welcome the day when the Vatican promptly and voluntarily discloses credible allegations against a prominent church official without external pressure.
We hope this news will bring at least a measure of solace to the brave men who have been hurt by O'Brien yet found the strength to act responsibly, report him, and protect others from him.
Winter Appeal 2023
To our friends,
2023 has been a long year with many ups and downs for us all. As we close out the year, we at SNAP hope that you are feeling like you are on your way to being healthy, fulfilled, and happy. This past year has brought both successes and challenges. Thanks to the support you have shown in the past, we’ve been able to celebrate the good days and weather the stormy ones. Now, we are once again asking for your support as we work to support survivors new and old as we ‘Move SNAP Forward.’
At SNAP we are proud to have hosted a very well-attended conference in August 2023. This event allowed us to gather friends, survivors, advocates, and allies for a weekend of camaraderie and connection. We were so happy to be able to welcome many first-time attendees to gather in person and are already looking forward to the next conference.
To strengthen our movement for justice, healing, and prevention, SNAP will be expanding our peer support and providing more volunteer opportunities in the coming year. Through this great work, we are ensuring survivor voices are represented as we work for significant change that will benefit children and survivors.
Right now, survivors worldwide are getting the help they need from SNAP, and more and more reach out to us daily, but we need your help to keep those programs going and get our volunteers the training they need to thrive.
Your tax-deductible gift to SNAP can help offset the cost of our important mission. If you are not in a position to contribute, you can still support us by sharing this letter with those who can. As we continue to fight for survivors across the globe, your donation or sharing the great work SNAP does will help us continue our work to protect the vulnerable, heal the wounded, and prevent abuse.
Your donation ensures SNAP will be there for those who need us more than ever!
Warmly,
Michael W. McDonnell, C.P.S.
Interim Executive Director