In September, victims of sexual abuse “upped the ante,” making a serious move to expose and prevent clergy sex crimes and cover-ups at the global level. How? SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (of which I am a member), filed a more than 80-page complaint (with 20,000 pages of documentation) with the International…Continue reading Four Myths About SNAP’s ICC Complaint
Statement by Joelle Casteix of Newport Beach, SNAP Western Regional Director, 949-322-7434, jcasteix@gmail.com We are saddened and disturbed to learn that despite a second allegation of abuse by Fr. Michael Kelly, Stockton Diocese officials still refuse to remove him from active ministry with children and families. Despite years of telling Catholics about child safety “reforms,” Stockton…Continue reading Victims respond: Lockeford priest accused of abuse by second child, remains in ministry
I’m angry. I’m upset and I’m frustrated. And I know I am not alone. My disgust has a target: the homework packet that came home with my five-year-old kindergartener on Monday. The six-page albatross includes writing, math, drawing, story problems, coloring, and a nature walk. The whole she-bang is due Friday morning. The assignments must…Continue reading Homework in Kindergarten? NO!
California is inundated with civil and criminal clergy sex abuse cases. I realized it was time for an update: Inland Empire Last week in Ontario, Fr. Alex Castillo was sentenced to a year in jail for lewd acts on a child. Although he was only prosecuted for his crimes against one victim, the sentencing report outlined…Continue reading The California Clergy Sex Abuse Powder Keg, Part 2
We must demand more from Archbishop Chaput – more transparency, more support for legislative change, and more accountability. While many Philadelphia Catholic pundits are cheering the recent appointment of Denver Archbishop Chaput to replace Cardinal Rigali, victims remain rightfully wary. We’ve seen first hand how easy it is for church officials replace a priest, vicar general,…Continue reading A Rigali in Chaput’s Clothing