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The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests

SNAP Press Statement

SNAP responds to new papal appointment;
blasts outgoing Cardinal

 

For immediate release:
Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2006

Statement by Barbara Blaine of Chicago, national president member of SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (312-399-4747)

"The departure of a radically insensitive Vatican official, Cardinal Dario Castrillon Hoyos, should be welcomed by Catholics everywhere. Of the many blame-shifting and excuse-making public comments made by church authorities on clergy sex abuse, Hoyos' remarks have been among the most harsh and off-the-mark."

He treated journalists with disdain and arrogance at a now-famous Vatican news conference: http://nationalcatholicreporter.org/word/word0329.htm

He reportedly responded with little compassion to an Irish priest who had been molested as a child by a priest, and focused more on silencing a percieved church critic: http://www.bishop-accountability.org/news2005_07_12/2005_07_17_Deveney_ActOf.htm

And he repeated many of the tired and callous misconceptions about the clergy sex abuse crisis and cover up, including that this is largely an American phenomenon.

We're grateful that a prelate with a more moderate reputation has been given this promotion. Both Pope Benedict and his predecessor have elevated more than their share of rigid, out of touch bishops to higher positions in the church hierarchy.

Contacts:
David Clohessy (314 566 9790 cell, 314 645 5915 home),
Barbara Blaine (312-399-4747),
Peter Isely (414-429-7259),
Mark Serrano (703-727-4940),
Mary Grant (626-419-2930)

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/national/1104AP_Vatican_Cardinal_Hummes.html

 

 

 


Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests
www.snapnetwork.org