Please God, I pray this is not true and has been misreported.
And if it is true – HOW ARE THEY GETTING AWAY WITH THIS??????!!!!!!
Italy’s bishops have adopted a policy, with backing from the Vatican, that states they are not obliged to inform police officers if they suspect a child has been molested.
The Italian Bishops’ Conference said the guidelines published on Friday reflected suggestions from the Vatican’s office that handles sex abuse investigations.
Victims have denounced how bishops systematically covered up abuse by moving priests while keeping prosecutors in the dark.
Only in 2010 did the Vatican instruct bishops to report abuse to police — but only where required by law.
Italian guidelines cite a 1985 treaty between the Vatican and Italy stipulating that clergy aren’t obliged to tell magistrates about information obtained through their religious ministry. The guidelines remind bishops, however, they have a ”moral duty“ to contribute to the common good.
April 11, 2014 at 3:53 am
I hope this is not true. It’s not legal. I don’t understand. I think I’m shocked by this.
April 11, 2014 at 3:55 am
I don’t know what Italy’s laws are, but here in Australia – this would be illegal.
But some Christians, seem to think they are above the law.
April 11, 2014 at 3:58 am
Abuse is abuse, it should be the same worldwide. What are these people thinking?
How can this not be prosecuted?
Shaking my head.