Pope Francis promised change. Specifically, he promised a new zero tolerance for priests found guilty of pedophilia. But change has been slow in coming. Pope Francis can and should do right by those abused by priests -- and do everything in his power to ensure such abuse never happens again. Right here, right now, he can transform the church and root out the rotten elements, but it will take more than promises to make it happen.
Pope Francis has a historic opportunity to craft a written policy which defrocks priests who abuse the faith of their congregations by molesting children and teens. A very specific document is needed which explicitly states the consequences for inappropriate sexual conduct. This document should be written with input from grass-roots Catholics and victims of sexual misconduct. It should be widely published so that Catholic families know their rights and understand the grievance process. Please join me in asking the Pope to authorize the writing of such a document.
Dear Pope Francis:
We the undersigned ask that you take concrete steps now to end priestly abuse of children and teens.
The worldwide Catholic community is hurting for lack of a clear and written policy that guides priests and monks and clearly lays out the consequences for sexual misconduct. Such a document must clearly expel priests who abuse their position of trust.
[Your comments here]
We ask that you authorize the writing of a formal policy as described above and that it contain input from Catholics in all walks of life and especially survivors of sexual abuse.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
