I'm still pondering this problem of sexual abuse by priests. I can understand why it happens - a very small number of priests are perverts, and they commit horrible crimes. It's as simple as that.
What's caused me trouble is understanding how bishops could let things like this continue to happen. I'm starting to develop a theory. In every diocese I've known (including Rome, where the Pope is bishop), the bishop is constantly surrounded by piranhas - power-hungry, self-seeking men who seek nothing but their own advancement. I suppose you see it in most organizations, but the piranhas seem to be particularly vicious in the Catholic Church.
The piranhas are a breed apart, intelligent, powerful men who aren't trusted by ordinary parish priests. The piranhas form a near-impenetrable shield, making it almost impossible to get through to the bishop.
My friends the nuns say that they've reported errant priests on a few occasions, and they have been frustrated by a constant lack of response from the diocese involved. I'm betting their complaints were intercepted before they ever got to the bishop.
I hope the current crisis will teach the Catholic Church a few things - especially, not to trust the piranhas.
-Joe Offer-