Pope Benedict XVI says the "bad seeds" among clergy do not obscure the good works of the Catholic church. Benedict was making a clear reference to the clergy sex abuse scandals when he said Saturday that news over these months aim to rob the church of its joy and reputation of a place of hope.
He said the fruit of "bad seeds" exists in the heart of the church and among those called by God to special service, an analogy for the pedophilia scandal tainting the priesthood.
But citing the Gospel parable of bad seed causing weeds to sprout among good seed, Benedict said the good of the church is not eliminated by evil.
Abuse allegations have rocked the church in several European countries this year, including his German homeland.
SIC: WFP