Public Statement by Dr Monica Applewhite on improvements in the Catholic Church in handling child abuse cases. (paralleled Witness policy highlighted in brackets in red)
Source: http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/change_in_vatican_culture/
Reporter:
Is there much of a difference between what happens when a priest is accused today and what happened prior to 2002 (when the charter and norms were adopted)?
Dr Monica Applewhite:
In most situations, no. The reforms of the Church began long before 2002. As laws changed, as understanding of sexual abuse and sexual offenders developed, so did the procedures of the Church in most local dioceses and communities.
It was 1992 when the bishops first began following the “Five Principles,” which included pastoral outreach to victims, investigations and open communication with communities.
Published in 1992, the bishops’ five principles were:
1) respond promptly to all allegations of abuse, (Accused is often called a liar, made to feel it was their fault, are subjected to horrific interrogation involving the most intimate sexual details in a small room with three old men and the accused while not being allowed any moral support)
2) relieve the alleged offender promptly of his ministerial duties and refer him for appropriate medical evaluation and intervention, (Accused is allowed to remain in position of authority simply by denying any accusation. Even after a clear confession or having been found guilty accused can apply for reinstatement and privileges. ie; be re-appointed as an elder or ministerial servant and gets to play with kids again)
3) comply with the obligations of civil law as regards reporting of the incident, (No reporting to police or authorities, victims coerced or actively discouraged from doing so)
4) reach out to the victims and their families, and (No reaching out to families or community whatsoever, no support, no professional counseling etc)
5) deal as openly as possible with the members of the community. (Total secrecy, all notes and records destroyed, keep complete silence or you will be disfellowshipped, community is never notified that a peopdophile has been ejected into or is operating and living in their midst)
Reporter:
In dealing with this issue, you’ve really seen the dark side of humanity and individuals within the Church. You’re still Catholic, aren’t you? How has it impacted your faith?
Dr Monica Applewhite:
This is a question I actually get fairly often. Even though much of my adult life has been spent dealing with sexual abuse in the Church and other organizations, I’m still Catholic.
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Strange that she feels no need to hold the Watchtower to the same standards as she does the Catholic Church.