New York City, N.Y., Apr 12, 2010 / 15:45 pm
The Holy See released a document today outlining the procedures used by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) to respond to legitimate reports of sexual abuse. Canon lawyer Fr. Gerald Murray told CNA that the “Guide will help all people understand that the Holy See, working with local bishops, is seriously engaged in removing criminal priests from the priesthood.”
Fr. Ciro Benedetti, sub-director of the Holy See’s Press Office, told journalists that these procedures are “nothing new” as they are simply a summary of elements and procedures which were established in John Paul II’s Motu Proprio “Sacramentorum sanctitatis tutela” in 2001.
Commenting on the document, titled, “A Guide to Understanding Basic CDF Procedures concerning Sexual Abuse Allegations,” Canon lawyer Fr. Gerald Murray called it an “excellent summary of the procedures followed by the Holy See and by local bishops in dealing with allegations of sexual abuse of minors by clerics.” Fr. Murray added, “It provides basic information to make clear the seriousness with which allegations of these horrendous crimes by the clergy are treated and resolved.”
The document states that all cases must first be investigated locally.