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Pope's Words Anger Victims of Sex Abuse

They're looking for action against priests—not lip service

By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff

Posted Apr 16, 2008 5:07 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Pope Benedict's attempt to placate priests' sex abuse victims has only served to anger many of them, reports the New York Times. The pontiff said he was "deeply ashamed" of the scandal that has triggered complaints from some 13,000 victims. He does not plan to meet with any victims' organizations during his US visit, however, and numerous protests are planned.

Victims' groups are calling for the Pope to take action against bishops who covered up for pedophile priests—and change church law to ensure that any priest who has assaulted a child is removed from the ministry. "We don’t really need his sense of shame,” said one abuse victim. “We need him to take firm actions to correct the situation.”

Demonstrators gather outside the White House in Washington, Monday, April 14, 2008, to protest the alleged abuses of the Catholic priests as the city prepares for the Pope's visit.
Demonstrators gather outside the White House in Washington, Monday, April 14, 2008, to protest the alleged abuses of the Catholic priests as the city prepares for the Pope's visit.   (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)
Pope Benedict XVI, left, stands alongside Archbishop Pietro Sambi, as he faces a group of local Catholics gathered to greet him, Tuesday, April 15, 2008.
Pope Benedict XVI, left, stands alongside Archbishop Pietro Sambi, as he faces a group of local Catholics gathered to greet him, Tuesday, April 15, 2008.   (AP Photo)
Pope Benedict XVI, left, walks with President Bush, right, during his arrival at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., Tuesday, April 15, 2008.
Pope Benedict XVI, left, walks with President Bush, right, during his arrival at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., Tuesday, April 15, 2008.   (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais)
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Pope Benedict XVI • Catholic Church • sexual abuse • clergy abuse scandal • priest • priest sex abuse • Pope Benedict's US visit

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