Chilean hierarchy apologizes for abuse
April 21, 2010
The bishops of Chile issued an apology to victims of clerical sexual abuse on April 20.
“There is no place in the priesthood for those who abuse minors, and there is nothing that can justify this crime,” said Bishop Alejandro Goic Karmelic of Rancagua, president of the nation’s episcopal conference. “To those people directly affected and to the communities in Chile which have seen reason for scandal in a priest, we ask them for forgiveness and call on them to communicate those facts.”
“It is our total pledge to constantly watch out to ensure these grave crimes are not repeated.”
Bishop Goic said that 20 allegations have been lodged against priests. The nation of 16.6 million is 74% Catholic; 2,327 priests minister in 941 parishes.
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