Case of abuse sparks rapid response from Argentinean diocese

Buenos Aires, Argentina, May 23, 2005 / 22:00 pm

The Diocese of San Isidro, Argentina, revealed this week the immediate measures taken in response to a possible case of clergy abuse.

Diocesan officials said they were the first to know of the case and therefore the Diocese acted quickly in order to “protect the rights of the children allegedly affected and to accompany the family members in the desire and actions to clarify the facts on the basis of truth and justice.”

In addition to removing the priest from his duties and from all contact with individuals, contact was made with the family and help provided for the young people in question.

Diocesan officials also assisted the mothers of the children in filing the appropriate charges with the local DA, saying that “support for the family and the children continues to be provided as well as our willingness to collaborate with all the requirements which justice shall determine.”

“If the truthfulness of the charges is confirmed, we will be dealing with serious sins that cause grave harm.  Therefore with the mere possibility that these acts may have taken place, we invite everyone to place us under the protection of the Lord and Mary Most Holy, imploring the mercy of the Lord and the light and strength to work according to the will of God,” read a statement from the Diocese.