Irish Catholicism which has traditionally been among strongest in Europe has been dealt a serious blow by the paedophilia scandal and cover ups of guilty clergy by certain bishops.
Ireland’s Prime Minister, Enda Kenny, defined the Vatican’s alleged refusal to collaborate in the inquiries surrounding Cloyne’s bishop, who is said to have neglected to report those suspected of committing acts of abuse, to the authorities.
On top of the diplomatic crisis, there is also a crisis in the faithful’s conscience. Since the publication of certain Reports between 2009 and 2011, the influence of the Church on Catholic society, has dropped significantly.
This delicate issue has been discussed in the Jesuit missionary magazine “Popoli”, by Fr. Brian Lennon, author of a book on the subject, entitled Can I Stay in the Catholic Church, due out in February 2012.
The first question considered is one regarding the numerous priests who have no personal responsibility whatsoever: does collective responsibility in the Church still exist? the Jesuit asks himself.
Another crucial issue is the Church’s governing system, whereby bishops only answered to the Vatican, and not to their Episcopal Conference: one document addressing paedophilia was put together by Irish bishops in 1996, but was not considered binding.
A third question regards the responsibilities of the Vatican, which according to Fr. Lenon, were not recognised.
“The Vatican appointed each and every one of Ireland’s bishops and all of them answer directly to the Pope. The Holy See needs to accept an adequate degree of responsibility.”
Then there is the problem of how children can be offered efficient protection on an international level in Church structures, even in Countries where there is a strong respect for the clergy.
According to Brian Lennon, a visit by the Pope to Ireland along with a symbolic gesture of repentance on behalf of the universal Church would be an important first step towards a real reform of church structures.