Irish abuse report is 'shocking'

[pnewton]

We are called to expose deeds of unrighteousness by finding facts and data and evidence to the best of our ability.

Facts and data I can understand, although I must have missed this “calling” in the message of the gospel. However, what is usually found are emotions, not facts. One does not do a very good job of finding facts when objectivity is lost.

 

[ron77nyc]

Facts and data I can understand, although I must have missed this “calling” in the message of the gospel.

Archie is right.

Ephesians 5:3 But immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints; 4 and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be partakers with them; 8 for you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light 9 (for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), 10 trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; 12 for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret.

Romans 13:12 The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.

1 Corinthians 5:9 I wrote you in my letter not to associate with immoral people;

2 Corinthians 6:14 Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?

1 Timothy 5:20 Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning.

 

[josie_L]

I disagree- the comments on this thread do seem a little defensive or to downplay what happened in Ireland instead of focussing on the culture of clericalism that enabled the abuse. We should not be afraid to hear criticism even if it’s voiced harshly or in an unbalanced way.

I mentioned his post and no one else’s. And I take umbrage at his particular post because it was nothing more than a rant focused on the evils of the Church and all things Catholic rather than on the topic in question. Furthermore, I have a degree in history and most of what he said is a caricature of the more or less objective history I have learnt thus far.

P.S. How healthy can it be to hear criticism if it is unbalanced?

 

[josie_L]

“criticism even if it’s voiced harshly or in an unbalanced way”

How is it possible to express too much “harsh” “unbalanced” outrage at the mass abuse and murder of the innocents over and over again?

I thank God I am not desensitized to these atrocities and still understand that we are to pursue truth.

Yes it was harsh and unbalanced, and furthermore most of his post didn’t even focus on the victims as much as it did on grossly out of proportion “atrocities” committed by the CC. I hope fervently that those who were truly victimized get the healing and blessings they deserve. And may all those involved repent of their actions and receive their just punishment.

 

[josie_L]

Facts and data I can understand, although I must have missed this “calling” in the message of the gospel. However, what is usually found are emotions, not facts. One does not do a very good job of finding facts when objectivity is lost.

 

[pnewton]

Archie is right.

Ephesians 5:3…11 Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; 12 for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret.

I understand. However, that is not what we are doing here. The vast majority of us who were criticized are not from Ireland and have no personal knowledge of these events. There is nothing for us to expose. If we assume that all these reports should be taken at face value, Archie has a point. This fallacy is called begging the question. What if this report is more politics than substance?

 

[mnealon1]

I think that it is accepted here in Ireland that everything that can be done for the victims will now be done, all be it too late for so many who are dead, and those who are hurting to the point of dispair still. It is heart wrenching to see how humble some of the victims are in their relief at just being believed.
I also know that several victims who were asked if they gave up their faith on account of what happened to them gave a a definate NO., which I think is wonderful and shows a wonderful trust in God no matter what.
God Bless