Nearly 25 years ago, the late Seattle Archbishop Thomas J. Murphy responded to the sexual abuse crisis in the Church. Here is what he said.

The Progress
December 8, 1994

In Joy and Hope

by

Archbishop Thomas J. Murphy

Response to sexual abuse

At last month's meeting of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, the issue of sexual abuse by clergy and workers in church settings was a topic that received a great deal of publicity. It is with deep regret that I acknowledge the reality of sexual abuse in our community and our church.

The church throughout the country is addressing this unfortunate reality by developing policies and procedures to respond with justice and compassion. Most of all, it has tried to assure the community at large that everything possible will be done to avoid instances of sexual abuse by clergy and church workers in the future.

I believe it is helpful to people to let them know what policies and procedures are in place here in Western Washington that help us to address sexual abuse and misconduct. Each of these actions is an abuse of power or authority and contradicts the basic mission and ministry of the church.

Principles for policies on sexual abuse!

Sexual abuse or misconduct by church personnel is contrary to basic principles of Christian morality. The integrity of the ministerial relationship between church personnel and the children and adults whom they serve is an imperative. This relationship presumes trust in the conduct of all ministers within the church community.

There are five principles that provide the basis for the church's position on addressing issues of sexual abuse. These principles are the following:

1) To respond promptly to all allegations of abuse where there is reasonable belief that abuse has occurred;

2) If such an allegation is found to be supported by sufficient evidence, to relieve the alleged offender promptly of ministerial duties and to refer the alleged offender for appropriate intervention and assessment;

3) To cooperate fully with civil authorities in reporting the incident and assisting with the investigation;

4) To reach out to the victims and their families and to communicate sincere commitment to their spiritual and emotional well-being;

5) Within the confines of respect for privacy of the individuals involved, to deal as openly as possible with the other members of the community who may be affected.

Compassion and accountability

Behind these principles regarding a response to sexual abuse by church ministers, there are two essential attitudes that must characterize the response of the church - compassion and accountability. When such instances have occurred within our own local church, I believe that our response has been rooted in compassion and accountability.

Accountability on the part of the local church includes the development of a written policy on sexual abuse and misconduct. The Archdiocese of Seattle has such a written policy in place which we believe is pastoral and responsible. Such compassion must be extended to the survivors of sexual abuse in every way possible.

Education and prevention

Policies regarding sexual abuse by church personnel must address not only the process for responding to allegations of such abuse that has taken place, they must also address the issues of education and prevention. All church personnel must be aware of the policies in place and the responsibility they have to be faithful to the trust that is placed in them. Screening and reporting procedures are also in place to assure the integrity of ministers in the church in their service of people.

Sexual abuse by church personnel becomes a challenge for a renewed commitment to the integrity of who we are and the position we hold within the church. Clergy and religious have the special obligation to live out our lifetime celibate commitment in a spirit of fidelity evident in our actions and lifestyle. All church personnel must recognize the obligation we have to serve people in ways that engender trust and accountability.

It is good that our church is responding to the reality of sexual abuse in an open and accountable way. To anyone who has suffered from sexual abuse by a person in church ministry, may I extend my deepest sorrow and regret. May our joint efforts help us ensure that we have done all we possibly can to prevent sexual abuse and misconduct from taking place here in the Church in Western Washington. May God's grace and peace be yours.