Sexual of a minor by a Preist is no different than sexual abuse of a minor by anyone else. it is a crime and should be pursued as such. i don’t understand why there are long discussions about what to do with a pedophile priest. For me it is simple. The constabulary with proper jurisdiction is called and the matter is investigated. During the time of investigation the Priest may continue his usual duties, but is not allowed any situations where he is alone with a minor. If he is arrested he is suspended from priest duties until the matter is resolved. A "no bill" by the Grand Jury should allow him to return to duties as determined by the Bishop. A not guilty by a Jury should allow him to return to duties as determined by the Bishop. A guilty verdict should cause the priest to be removed from the priesthood and excommunicated from the Church.

There can and should be forgiveness. Forgiveness does not include no punishment and does not mean the man should be allowed to continue as a priest.

We should also allow Married Priests of either sex. This would help eliminate Pederasts by making the pool of people for vocations larger and eliminate the selection of marginal candidates for education and training for the priesthood.

None of this helps those already abused and hurting. The Bishops should make it clear the healing and assistance for those suffering the effects of such abuse is first and more important than protecting the Church as an institution. What should be protested is the Church as the Bride of Christ-that is the people. I feel the message is clear the people suffering the abuse are often second to the protection of the Church as institution. And sometimes are tertiary to the protection of the priest involved.