Statement following U.S. cardinals' meeting at Vatican
to address sex abuse scandal

Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap.
April 24, 2002

"I'm grateful the Holy Father has focused the issue of clergy sexual misconduct in such a serious and direct way. This week's discussions at the Vatican were a good beginning. They provide the foundation for a very fruitful meeting of the U.S. bishops in June. I think every bishop understands the urgency of addressing this problem consistently and rigorously, not only at the local level but nationally.

"This is a painful moment for all Catholics in the United States. My hope and expectation is that the purification we're experiencing now will lead to a stronger Church in the years ahead."