Lilia Borlongan-Alvarez on Staying True to the Church in the Midst of Scandal

"Many people these days seem no longer surprised to hear of reports or news about abuse of men, women and children by members of the Catholic clergy. The numerous clerical scandals in different parts of the world appear to have numbed many Catholics (or worse, have made them cynical). They have become generally unsympathetic to priests or bishops who have been accused or found guilty of sexual offenses and other crimes. The much talked about cover-up by some Church officials of these scandals has drawn the ire of many Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

"Of course our hearts go out to the poor victims of abuse, the families they've hurt and the lives they've ruined. We who have not experienced the same treatment cannot approximate the trauma and emotional pain they've gone through. It is normal to be hurt and seek justice and redress; erring clergymen should be prosecuted and made to pay for their crimes. This is not to say that they do not deserve rehabilitation too, where possible.

"But should victims of clerical abuse stay away from the Church and the sacraments? Should Catholics leave the Church altogether and join other Christian denominations where the Sunday service, fellowship and camaraderie are mistaken for the Truth? Should they instead join a cult, become Buddhists or dabble in other religions? Should they condemn the entire Church for failing them?"

In a recent commentary, writer Lilia Borlongan-Alvarez, using some insights from the late Father Benedict J. Groeschel, reflected on some of the reasons why Cit is important to be faithful to the Church.

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Catholic Stand: Staying True to the Church in the Midst of Scandal (17 JAN 20)