Hope

I will never understand why the Catholic church does not kick out these priests who destroy the dignity, value, religion, and sexuality of the children they molest. I will never understand why the Church ignores when Christ says that it's better for you to throw yourself in to the sea and drown (AKA commit suicide) than for you to cause a child to stumble (or to do all of the things child molesters do). I will never understand why there is an idea of tolerance to those individuals who are called to be the pillars, backbone, and strength of the Church. And why we all as Christians in general (and the Protestant realm is equally guilty of these things) constantly make excuses like well they're sinners too... BS. When you accept the calling of priesthood/pastor/leader in ANY way within the religious realm, you no longer get to use the excuse that you're "just a sinner". You don't get to permanently damage another human being, call yourself a sinner, and move on about your way (often times at other Parish's/churches).

The scars of molestation and rape are permanent. Even if the individual is able to come to some sort of notion in their mind of forgiveness, their view of sex is forever changed. Their marriage will be effected, how they parent, everything they do is viewed through the lens of the actions that this leader and mentor did to them. There can be no allowance of continued behavior. There can be no chances offered for them to do this to someone else. There can be forgiveness. But forgiveness does not mean lack of consequence. Forgiveness does not mean that the person should continue working in their field. Church leaders are called to incredibly high standards for a reason. When they fail to uphold a life worthy of the calling, they should be removed from their position. No ifs ands or buts about it.

It is my prayer and hope that the new Pope will have the firmest stance against child molestation the world has ever seen.