Pedophelia has no sexual orientation.

I will never understand why anyone who knows or suspects kids are being abused would tell anyone other than the police, and consider their duty done.

His defense team said it was "up to the Cardinal." Why was it not up to the police, DA and a jury?

This is the US. We have laws. He violated them and belongs in the criminal justice system.

Yes, he also violated his oath to God and the Catholic Church. The Cardinal and Catholic Church can have all the jurisdiction they want over that.

However, molesting children is a crime. People who do it belong in the criminal justice system. Telling another priest or Cardinal or trying to get them help is not enough (just as telling campus security is not enough when yo see no investigation is taking place.)

Even if you are not sure-that is why the police do investigations...they don't charge them unless they have proof. So, even if you are not sure-but suspect a child is being abused, you go to the police. You can also go to the Cardinal-but you go to the police. You can also go to your boss-but you go to the police. You do not worry about your job-you worry about the kids being abused. You will not lose your job for going to the police because, if you do, there will be hell to pay, pun intended, for the church, school or company.

This priest knew he was a "ticking time bomb" and he waited to see if someone else-anyone else cardinal or not-would do something? What? Who thinks like that?

"He said he hoped Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua and other superiors would address the growing crisis." WHAT?

Children are being abused-you stop it. If the person you tell does not stop it, you tell someone else who is in a position to do so. If not, you are responsible.

What part of this is difficult?

I hope the fall of Paterno and this guy being found guilty will make this point more clear to all-though I can't see how anyone misses it.

I keep saying it and will continue to say it:

This is more evidence that "religious institutions" need to pay taxes.

Just because the religious live in anachronistic, anti-Modern worlds, does not mean that they should receive the same services/benefits as the rest of us without paying taxes.

I am sick of subsidizing intolerance.

At last, the gate has opened. Those who hide behind "the lamb God" are no longer able to find sanctuary where these awful deeds occurred: the catholic church.

Never Stop Asking Questions,

RIGHT ON!

The Catholic church should consider requiring priests to be married rather than forbidding them to marry. Healthy human beings have a natural need for sex.

@uchusky99

Religion is a form of brainwashing. The answer is as simple as that to be honest. It may be hard for some to accept. But there it is.

But it is not just religion or the Catholic Church. Look at Penn State!

Child abuse is not an internal company/organization/school/church problem that should be handled through the company. It is a violent crime that needs to be investigated by law enforcement and, if evidence exists, prosecuted by law enforcement.

It is about time they put one of these church officials that were involved in the cover up of abusive priests in prison. They allowed the abuse to continue, in some cases for decades, through their inaction and failure to address the problem. As far as I am concerned, they are just as responsible for subsequent abuses committed by these priests as the offending priests are. They were in a position to stop the abuse and did nothing. They may not have been able to stop the initial abuse by a priest, but they they could have saved countless additional victims from suffering the same fate by simply doing their job and making sure that the offending priest was brought to justice and never again allowed to victimize another child.

In the Catholic Church Just like any other institution, the most important thing will always be the protection of the institution over all else. Look at any corruption scandal in any situation be it a business, a religion, a government, a school and you will always find one common thread, the individuals will always work to protect the existence of the organization before anything else even if it means subjecting innocent children to the most heinous of circumstances. Just look at Penn State, McQueary witnessed the abuse with his own two eyes and what did he do first? Protect the Penn State institution. When Joe Paterno, thought to be a man of the highest morals, learned of the abuse what did he do? Protect the Penn State institution.

Cracks me up how concerned the Vatican is about birth control, masturbation, etc., and then there is this. What a joke, except to the boys/girls abused. Sickening. Throw him in jail.

Just another example of religion turning it's ugly head. What if God was really the devil. He is a master manipulator of evil right? Just a thought.

To uschusky99--you said it so well in your first comment that it bears repeating. Child abuse is a crime and should be reported to the POLICE. The hierarchy of a powerful church or institution is not a substitue for law enforcement. Period.

Philidelphia pedophelia priest poke it no matter what gender ,race or age

Fantastic news! Wish the conspiracy charges were successful. I'd like to see the Pope charged next. This has been a worldwide problem throughout the Catholic Church. There is a culture that covers up for these Priests rather than holding them accountable and protecting the children.

individuals will always work to protect the existence of the organization before anything else even if it means subjecting innocent children to the most heinous of circumstances.

Hopefully, the fall of Paterno, this guy and hopefully others going to jail will change that.

The Catholic Church forbids married persons, women, and openly gay individuals as clergy. Yet they allow pedophiles to remain within their ranks. With this kind of archaic thinking, it's little wonder so many Catholics are leaving this medieval sect of Christianity. Will the last parishioner please turn out the narthex light on your way out?

but that he was only doing his job when he reassigned suspected clergy.

Of course he was, it was obviously a global policy, and being Catholic the crim/justice system is only a nuisance to be avoided, not an institution to be respected let alone to bring in to the damned church.

Well said, GreatJob12....!

These things will continue to happen as long as institutions are held in higher importance than people.

The Catholic church has always tried to keep their sheep in the dark, If the truth be known they would be the laughing stock of the world.

The problem with religion is man.
I have faith in Jesus's teachings not the men of religion.

I also think our forefathers in visioned the empowerment of all. Not for you to empower some.
Liberal vs. conservative, conservative vs. liberal. What a headache!

THIS LITTLE LIGHT OF MINE

The Catholic church should consider requiring priests to be married rather than forbidding them to marry. Healthy human beings have a natural need for sex.

JK this is true, but since one of the Catholic Church's teachings is against birth control, how many children would the church goers have to support and how much time would he really be able to give his parishioners in time of need with his own family needing him? And if they got divorced, would the wife be able to get half of the parrish belongings? We need another plan...

If god was really the devil it would kind of make sense wouldn't it? We are slaves to money and of consumption. Kids are more important than people. Money is more important than human life. We slave for the hopes of making more money and gaining higher standing in society. We get minimal vacation time. We get tiny snipits of true joy and happiness. We watch as others get to use the globe as a playground for singing a popular song or making a sex tape. We get to watch our elders be disrespected after having to break their backs to help build this country and provide for us. We get to watch them wither away and die from breaking their bodies down their whole lives. We get to do it again in their place while we are picked and prodded at for the rest of our lives. Commute for hours, in capsules, through heavy traffic both ways to get to and from work. Sounds like hell on earth to me, lol.

An ignorant thought, but yes it is a thought.

I'm very glad to see the ball start rolling on priests to be forced to turn over evidence or go to prison , maybe now they will start acting like they should have in the first place .

As for the Paterno thing , you do realize that Joe Paterno only had second hand information which in legal terms is completely worthless for getting even an investigation opened . Only McQueary could have actually through testimony gotten the ball rolling on charges against Sandusky not Paterno . I personally hold no blame against Paterno and feel he was wrongly treated , only hearing a one time claim by one person he wasn't in a position to do anything about it and had he fired Sandusky he would have been sued no doubt since he had no first hand knowledge of the events .

So the Catholic Church is against any form of birth control, premarital sex, and the gay lifestyle, but I guess it is ok if you get a trifecta (or would it be getting a turkey?) and do all three at once. I hope all the people responsible for the abuse and the ones that were helping cover it up get what is coming to them, and I've heard that child molesters and rapists have a harder time in prison than anyone else. I really hope that is true.

"Only doing his job is the same as saying I was only following orders". That defense didn't work in Nuremberg and it doesn't work here! Until these phedophiles are locked away when they are discovered breaking the law this type of behavior will continue. " The only way that evil may prevail is if good men and women do nothing" ! What can I do and I didn't know does not release us from our obligation to protect the innocent. Pro Vulneratus !

The Catholic church should consider requiring priests to be married rather than forbidding them to marry.

Marrying another adult doesn't cure one of Pedophilia.

And, the only way to cure this planet of the Pedophile Catholic Cult is to shut it down, dismantle it, sell it off to the highest bidder, half goes to taxes, the other half to all the Cult's victims and families.

Willie McCoy: So the Catholic Church is against any form of birth control, premarital sex, and the gay lifestyle, but I guess it is ok if you get a trifecta (or would it be getting a turkey?) and do all three at once.

Nice try at convicting gays, Willie - but pedophilia has nothing to do with sexual orientation.

Cheers!

@uchusky99 Your right it's not just religion. Penn State is a good example of that to be sure. But when you look at the the social order; the belief that there is something greater going on then most people would "understand". There is a disconnect from what you and me would consider appalling/evil.

What would be the difference if the priest were married? What if the priest married a real bitch that wouldn't do her duty? Some religions have sex between married people ONLY to have children. After that, it is the same as being single. Don't these priest have hands?

There are no married pedophiles?? Don't kind yourself.

Prosecution, convicton, and incarceration is NOT enough.

Hit them where it hurts. The POCKET BOOK!!

Non profit my A$$.

Tax payer dollars went to investigating and litigating this case, surrounding an organization that 'legally' skirts paying those same taxes.

Last I looked, the catholic church might have a few more duckets than any of us taxpayers that payed for this. RIDICULOUS!!

Now how many more tax dollars are spent in treating thier victims?

Fine them in the multi-millions!!!

At least get back a TINY portion of what this costs the every day schmuck that can't claim they are a legitimate charity and bilk the people out of those billions.

For them it is all about the $$$$$$$ !!!!

Hit them where it hurts and they will make good and GOD d&mned sure this type of transgression stops.

And it's our duty as parents to send our children to church. We trust men of god to teach our children. these are just men nothing more and nothing less. I find nothing to respect from any church. I was raised in a church enviorment, all I remember is a hole Lotta people full of a hole Lotta b.s.. Self serving jerks. Liers but respected from the community. cults recognised by government as a tax free organization. If there is a hell it's full of robes and collection plates

Married men can be pedophiles too-look at Sandusky.

I believe that priests should be able to get married, and think that celibacy may attract men to it that do not have a healthy sexuality.

That being said, pedophiles seek situations where they are trusted and have access to children. Churches will always be a good place for that-as will schools and children's charities-particularly those with at risk kids who make poor witnesses.

The biggest thing that needs to change is the coverups. Bad things happen when good people don't stop them. We as a society need to hold those who know about abuse accountable to make sure it stops. We need to prosecute those who do not go to law enforcement with valid reports of abuse. If people start going to jail-the attempts to protest institutions like this-or Penn State-will stop.

On cross-examination, Lynn acknowledged that he had not helped the 10-year-old altar boy raped by the Rev. Edward Avery in 1999, seven years after Lynn met with another Avery accuser.

NOT HELPED!!??

He should get the stiffest sentence. Disgusting (and pardon the pun). What kind of man would overlook or attempt to cover-up another pedophile priest? These are innocent children, for God's sake!

Young boys should never be left alone with Priests. The cover-ups of abuse are astounding.

i agree hatchet, let all churches in this country pay taxes, they're all political enough. monseigneur in my church would be swaying the vote at election time during his sermons...

tax, tax, tax.

This Monsignor was only a middle manager and the government needs to go after his Bishop, the Cardinals and even the pope because this didn't start with just the actions of a Monsignor in Philadelphia.

These perverts paraded around in silk robes and portrayed themselves as the men of god and moral teachers when they were running a pedophile ring and what else that we don't know that is hidden behind a wall of secrecy.

I was raised Roman Catholic as a member of the Cleveland diocese and maybe this conviction will open a few doors( and a few secret files) and start to bring those who tolerated this disgusting policy to a halt.

OK so put him in solitary for 7 years in a 4x4 cell with a padded floor and a cross on the wall have have him pray for forgiveness for the entire time. Make certain there are no windows and one spotlight on the cross and that is it. Perhaps he might even get religion.

I wonder if they did not have a lot of problems with their clergy getting the parishoners pregnant, and that's why they adopted a harsh stance on birth control as a deterrant. So the young males were the safest bet for the priests to not be caught...

finally we are starting to see justice for the victims , it is to bad the cardinal Bevilacqua is dead it would of been nice to see him go to jail. if there really is a hell I hope he is being raped 24/7 .

all that guy had to do was pick up a phone and he would not be going to jail , oh well .

pedofilia is way out of control all over the world and of course it is just not the RC church it is other religions too. it is ok for a muslum to have sex with boys because they dont have a beard . it is teachers,professers,police, coaches, all kinds of people all walks of life. it has to stop !! we have to keep our children safe .

wasnt it soccrates who was forced to drink hemlock because of his desire for young boys ?? also thier was a priest in florida that actually said true love is only found between a man and a boy .

we have to get tougher laws and much tougher sentences .

Adwaup,

Seriously? Paterno shouldn't hold any responsibility because he heard about Sandusky from someone else and that was second hand information? So if a student approaches a school principal and says they heard/saw a teacher having sex with a student the principal couldn't/shouldn't do anything either because that is second hand info. Has to come from the actual victim? Really? That is the stupdiest thing I've ever heard. If you are in charge of employees and someone approaches you about another employee raping someone you can't do anything unless it's first hand info from a victim? Please give all of us your work information so we'll know not to work wherever you work if that is your company's policy.

For the record I'm not trying to say you need to belong to some organization or belief structure to be a pedophile. But when you devote your life to something like religion, or something similar, it becomes a part of who you are. Some people may retain there morals and know right from wrong, others could be so invested in it that they essentially blur the lines of reality to protect themselves.

It’s sad that there are some people out there who do such despicable things. It’s too bad that the perception is that most catholic priest are pedophiles when that is not the case.

The despicable actions of a few do reflect poorly on the church however this is not proof that the church is bad. I agree that officials in the church could handle this situations better and allow the justice system to step in. However my point is that this should not convict everyone who is a catholic or a follower of Christ.
This is just another example that we are all only human and flawed. Yes, this behavior should be punished. But this is not what being a follower of Jesus is about.

Too lenient but it is about time someone was held accountable for their actions or lack thereof. I hope they give him the maximum sentence.

Adwaup---Paterno's testimony couldn't have been used in court, it would have been hearsay...You are wrong about the rest of it...He could have called the cops and they could have gathered non-hearsay evidence like McQueary's testimony....But no, he swept it under the rug and ignored it....You are disgusting for saying it is okay that he did that...He is guilty of crimes on par with this priest...Open up your eyes...He was told, and did not call the police...He didn't see it himself but was told about it an did nothing....

Unfortunately, many of the Catholic faith, forget they are supposed to be Christians first. Priests and Nuns have been abusive in many ways for years. Not just sexual abuse. In the beginning the Popes were married and that practice stopped because the "Church" was concerned that they would leave the money/wealth to their wives and families. Now the church is losing all to lawsuits. How iroinic!!! Abuse of children whether sexual,mental or neglect is wrong. Priests stand and talk about what the Word says, how about relating it to real life and living it. Many people abuse of all denominations but, most are not celibate every religious quit hiding behind your collars and truly be what you are called by God t be.

Gordy-1086228

The Catholic Church forbids married persons, women, and openly gay individuals as clergy. Yet they allow pedophiles to remain within their ranks. With this kind of archaic thinking, it's little wonder so many Catholics are leaving this medieval sect of Christianity. Will the last parishioner please turn out the narthex light on your way out?

This is not meant to excuse or minimize the problem of sexual abuse in the Church; but priestly celibacy has nothing to do with this. Your minor child is 100 times more likely to be engaged in sexual relations with a public school teacher than a priest. These homosexuals that were attracted to pre/post pubescent boys (very few heterosexual contacts) had these disordered predilections prior to entering their vocation. These types of people (teachers; coaches; youth counselors; and, yes, religious leaders of all denominations) seek out these jobs because it will bring them into close contact with their potential victims. What needs to be done is better pre-employment physiological vetting.

Also, by many here making the generalization that all priests are pedophiles and other sweeping statements must mean all men living in the Pennsylvania are homosexual boy rapers. This is, at least, the second case of this nature in the news in recent months from the same state. The Keystone State must make all men want to be pederastists. :rolleyes:

Mother Cluster Duck #1.4,are you kidding? nothing has changed just a small fraction of those criminials have been caught.

This wouldn't be an issue if the Catholic church actually purged pedophiles from its ranks and publicly excommunicated all pedophiles rather than protecting them. Shoot, if I was Pope that's the first thing I'd do. Scratch that, it's the second thing I'd do. The first thing I'd do would be to excommunicate all the cardinals and arch bishops and bishops that protect these pedophile priests. THEN I'd excommunicate the pedophiles.

Worm meat

It's too bad that the perception is that most catholic priest are pedophiles when that is not the case.

That's what I used to think, as well. Not anymore!!!

There are too may Catholic priests that are pedophiles. There are too many Catholic administrators, cardinals, bishops and priests who are guilty of turning a blind eye within.

As a former Catholic, I am disgusted. The ones who knew about it and did nothing, or worse, relocated the pedophiles, share the same crime and deserve the strongest punishment. There is no excuse to not come to the defense of innocent young victims.

Do you recall recently where a father killed a pedophile that was raping his 5 year old daughter? That's the rage I feel against these Catholic priest pedophiles and there accomplices.

very few heterosexual contacts

This is mainly because of access. There were no female altar servers until 15 years ago. Also, a priest can be where a boy is changing clothes or in a vunerable situation easier than where girls are.

How could Sandusky have raped little girls in the shower. As odd as it was for him to be in the boys shower, he would never have been allowed in the girls shower.

Also, overall, there is an equal mix of boys and girls who are molested overall. Many pedophiles do not have a preference-it has more to do with access-as the desire to have sex with a child is the desire to victimize, and has little to do with their sexuality.

uchusky99, where's the evidence that Sandusky or these God damned pedophile priests were interested in anything, but young, vulnerable boys?

I know that some pedophiles don't have a gender preference. But come on, did you ever hear of allegations of Michael Jackson sleeping with young girls? These guys are homosexual pedophiles and until psychiatric evaluations come out, I won't speculate about their criminal minds.

It's all about the almighty Dollar. The banks didn't change and neither will the church. As long as the dollar keeps coming in, it's business as usual. And people keep giving the $$$$ to the church.

JM California

I agree that punishment for this should be swift and harsh. People who choose to put them self's up as leaders not just in church but in any aspect of society, should be held to a higher standard.

The point i was trying to make and probably not very well is that this kind of thing should not stop people from following Christ or deter them from looking into Christianity, and not lump all Christians into this horrible group.

"Secret Church files containing hundreds of sex abuse cases"! OK, a paper trail. I just found this article and will be watching.

QUOTE: "He did what he could to stop molestation by clergy."

That's just the point; He did NOT do all that he could and so became a party to the crime.

The Church has -- unashamedly -- to clean its house and protect its children, else the house will not stand.

Worm meat

that this kind of thing should not stop people from following Christ or deter them from looking into Christianity, and not lump all Christians into this horrible group.

If I hadn't become an atheist, I might agree with you. I gave up on organized religions because they no longer had meaning for me, certainly not because of pedophilia. I don't judge all of Christianity for the crimes of the Catholic Church.

If someone chooses to follow Christ, I hope it doesn't become a disguise or and intellectual ruse.

Thanks for your comments!

Kids lie. Women lie. They play the vic, they play the courts, they play the Justice Establishment. Not saying it happened here, nor saying that it didn't. The PC quasi-morality of the times has accepted that caregivers, priests and men in general can have their lives ruined merely on the unsupported word of just one person who chooses to accuse some poor schmo out of greed, hate or a need for revenge. Any cops logged on here, validate me.

Just let's see who climbs on the bandwagon to either pillory me or justify this legal lynching.

And by the way he followed an authority he judged to be higher than civil authority. But the Church thrives on martyrs so what the hey?

That's right, Tom. Are you a defense expert? Some people are wrongly accused. Do you think this is the case in this article?

My father didn't lie when he described his sexual abuse from a priest in 1932. At that time, he could tell no one. How long will this go on before you say, this has got to stop, no more cover-ups, no more excuses!

I think our young boys deserve justice if they are to make any meaningful recovery.

This is more evidence that "religious institutions" need to pay taxes.

Never Stop Answering Questions:

Whatever happened to the idea of separation of church and state? You do realize that if you start mixing the two, that will no longer exist. As taxpayers, we will have the right to then make those decisions. A church doesn't need to stay in business to talk about God. We can do that anywhere.

Second, all the money that the churches recieve were earned by Christians everywhere who gave willingly. Is it right for you to tell us what we should do with OUR money? Perhaps when atheists actually outspend christians in terms of caring for others, then you would have the right to speak.

Just because the religious live in anachronistic, anti-Modern worlds, does not mean that they should receive the same services/benefits as the rest of us without paying taxes.Why

Why, don't we pay taxes as well? As for your comment on christians being in an Anti-Modern world; you should know that when you curtail the rights of the people, you are not progressing forward!!!!!!Save your crap for someone else!

I am sick of subsidizing intolerance.

Christians everywhere are also tired of subsidizing your intolerance. If given the choice, christians wouldn't support half of the programs which the govt. likes to shove down our throats( Planned Parenthood). Which is why we can't stand people like you in the White House.

Is or isn't this a case of organized crime?

Or is it a case of corporate cover up?

Unhappy-1583758

Never Stop Answering Questions:

Whatever happened to the idea of separation of church and state? You do realize that if you start mixing the two, that will no longer exist. As taxpayers, we will have the right to then make those decisions. A church doesn't need to stay in business to talk about God. We can do that anywhere.

You're right, whatever happened to the idea of separation of church and state? Tell your Christian Churches TO STAY out of the American political process. Tell them if they want to donate cash to influence american secular law then they pay taxes just like a corporation would as well. I am personally fed up with some church trying to use their beliefs as 'the laws' of the United States. Its a clear violation of Amendment #1 and has no place in our secular laws.

Second, all the money that the churches receive were earned by Christians everywhere who gave willingly. Is it right for you to tell us what we should do with OUR money? Perhaps when atheists actually outspend christians in terms of caring for others, then you would have the right to speak.

You're churches can do whatever they want with their $$. However, once again, stay out of the political process. Christian beliefs are not the laws of the United States of America. First, I don't believe for one minute that Christians 'outspend' everyone else, if they do for their charities, then show me a source. Secondly, I don't care if a christian church spent all the money in the world on a charity. It does not make up for 1 crime against a child as is the case in this article.

Why, don't we pay taxes as well? As for your comment on christians being in an Anti-Modern world; you should know that when you curtail the rights of the people, you are not progressing forward!!!!!!Save your crap for someone else!

Yes, the christian church is very anti-modern world. Let's face it, so many Christians love to use the bible to influence secular laws. However, at the same time, they ignore other parts of the bible because they can.

Christians everywhere are also tired of subsidizing your intolerance. If given the choice, christians wouldn't support half of the programs which the govt. likes to shove down our throats( Planned Parenthood). Which is why we can't stand people like you in the White House.Th

Then stop shoving down our throats your christian beliefs and values. There are many other religions in the United States and the last time I checked, Christianity is not the official religion of this country. If you want to live in a country where religion is also the secular law.. Try Iran.

Every religion, after school camp, child relief organization, school and every other group that has contact with children needs to wake up and realize that pedophiles seek out involvement with organizations that will give them access to the demographic of child that arouses them.

While each pedophile may have a specific demographic ( girl, boy, age range, race) that arouses them, each and every pedophile will seek out an organization that includes that demographic and volunteer/work there to gain access to children.

Every single organization that works with children can fall prey to a pedophile taking advantage of the good reputation of that organization in the community.

Parents - if you assume that any organization has complete control of their ability to protect your child - you are WRONG! Take the time to know and meet EVERY single adult that spends time with your child. If you do not, you are just as responsible as the organization you are assuming should protect your child.

Pedophiles - Society is disgusted by you. If you cross the wrong parent, your life expectancy will suddenly become very, very short. But, you knew that. . .

It's About time:

Tell your Christian Churches TO STAY out of the American political process. Tell them if they want to donate cash to influence american secular law then they pay taxes just like a corporation would as well. I am personally fed up with some church trying to use their beliefs as 'the laws' of the United States. Its a clear violation of Amendment #1 and has no place in our secular laws.

VERY FEW churches are in the American Political Process. Trouble is most atheists accuse christian churches because they assume that is the reason why we vote the way we do. If there were no churches, we would still vote the way we do because our values are based upon the bible. That's probably why you think all churches are influenced. We don't care about what party a candidate represents; just their beliefs.

You're churches can do whatever they want with their $$. However, once again, stay out of the political process. Christian beliefs are not the laws of the United States of America. First, I don't believe for one minute that Christians 'outspend' everyone else, if they do for their charities, then show me a source. Secondly, I don't care if a christian church spent all the money in the world on a charity. It does not make up for 1 crime against a child as is the case in this article.

Everybody is entitled to one vote. I don't tell you how you should vote, so don't tell us how we should. Despite the contrary, Christians do make up a large majority of this country so pull your head out of the sand. Christians do give more to charities than everyone else. That is just fact. And we don't just support christian charities either, we support secular charities as well so long as they don't conflict with our beliefs. Again... our money, our choice. Third, I didn't mention anything about the child in my post. What that priest did is wrong, however you shouldn't blame christians everywhere. I don't do that to atheists!

Yes, the christian church is very anti-modern world. Let's face it, so many Christians love to use the bible to influence secular laws. However, at the same time, they ignore other parts of the bible because they can.

Christians read the ENTIRE bible, not just those laws set in the books of Leviticus. A fact that would describe most atheists when pointing out which laws we like to "ignore". Christians vote on beliefs and nothing else. Just because they match the values of the bible doesn't make it wrong. Why don't you tell us what really bothers you about Christianity? Did some christian do something to you as a kid and now you hate everybody?

Then stop shoving down our throats your christian beliefs and values. There are many other religions in the United States and the last time I checked, Christianity is not the official religion of this country. If you want to live in a country where religion is also the secular law.. Try Iran.

Nobody is shoving anything down your throats. It's not like you turn on the computer and see articles on Gay marriage, gay hotels, gay celebrities, gay etc. I don't see many articles that stress christian living here on MSNBC. So I guess your points fail in that respect.

If you want to live in a country where there are a limited number of christians,....... Try Iran.

JM California: uchusky99, where's the evidence that Sandusky or these God damned pedophile priests were interested in anything, but young, vulnerable boys? I know that some pedophiles don't have a gender preference. But come on, did you ever hear of allegations of Michael Jackson sleeping with young girls? These guys are homosexual pedophiles and until psychiatric evaluations come out, I won't speculate about their criminal minds.

Where's the evidence? It's right in front of you, if you're not too much of a liar and a coward (and simply a gay-basher) to actually READ the statistics.

According ot the Dept of Justice, most of the victims of Pedophile Priests, when the activity took places in churches, were young boys. Of course, there have been (until recently) only young boys serving as volunteers in the churches (altar boys, choir boys). HOWEVER, when you see the statistics of the victims of priest abuse in the catholic schools, where the student populations were made up of boys and girls, the statistics were quite close, almost identical to the gender makeup of the student population.

Fact is, pedophilia is about an attraction to children, regardless of gender. It is about controlling them, dominating them, and it's often due to some kind of supervisory or guardianship role that enables them to groom the kid(s) over time.

It has nothing to do with sexual orientation, though some of the gay-bashers would love to make it about that. Problem is, when cowards/gay-bashers blame it on the wrong issue (like you have for so long already) the problem continues. Have the courage to address it properly, and you'll start making some progress.

By far the best comment posted on here regarding the Church is post #1.63 written by "Its About Time - 3704531." I've read a lot of posts on here. Do NOT pass this one by and take the time to read it.

I was raised Roman Catholic and through out my life time I've attended many different Christian Churches/Faiths. My opinion: Religion, like politics, is an organized entity with an abundance of money, power, corruption, and followers who are easily led astray. However, I do not want my religion involved in politics. Aside from the Catholic Church covering crimes of pedophilia, I've become most turned off by their handing out of political brochures, and their obsession with pro-life and birth control, yet no regard for human rights.

The largest of crimes are when those in positions of power mislead others, and more so when done in the name of GOD.

Will he serve time or be wisked away to Rome.

Unhappy-1583758

VERY FEW churches are in the American Political Process.

Really? are you sure of that? Do some homework and see just how many do participate in the American Political Process. Either using their $$ or attempting to spew their religious beliefs as the secular laws of the United States. Far as I am concerned, any religion that participates in the process is in violation of the 501(c)(3) and should be taxed.

http://www.irs.gov/charities/charitable/article/0,,id=163395,00.html

Trouble is most atheists accuse christian churches because they assume that is the reason why we vote the way we do. If there were no churches, we would still vote the way we do because our values are based upon the bible. That's probably why you think all churches are influenced. We don't care about what party a candidate represents; just their beliefs.

If there were no organized religions, the world may be a happier place. Religion divides people. Oh but religion DOES indeed care about what party a candidate represents. Some Christians LOVE to 'influence' candidates based on their religion and then use that influence to change secular law.

Everybody is entitled to one vote. I don't tell you how you should vote, so don't tell us how we should. Despite the contrary, Christians do make up a large majority of this country so pull your head out of the sand. Christians do give more to charities than everyone else. That is just fact.

Just because Christians make up the majority doesn't mean anything. Christianity is not the official religion of the United States of America. As long as amendment #1 stands, it never will be either. I am still waiting for you to produce a reptutable source that says Christians give more to charities than everyone else. If they do, does that mean they are 'superior' to everyone else?

And we don't just support christian charities either, we support secular charities as well so long as they don't conflict with our beliefs. Again... our money, our choice. Third, I didn't mention anything about the child in my post. What that priest did is wrong, however you shouldn't blame christians everywhere. I don't do that to atheists!

I support many charities as well, provided they do not go against my own core beliefs. I already said, your money your choice. However, do not use YOUR choices to change our secular laws, period. I don't blame Christians everywhere, just those who have a 'holier than thou' attitude and think their beliefs are strong than secular law.

Christians read the ENTIRE bible, not just those laws set in the books of Leviticus. A fact that would describe most atheists when pointing out which laws we like to "ignore". Christians vote on beliefs and nothing else.

Sorry, but not all Christians read the entire bible and quite a few Christians love to use 'some parts of the bible and ignore other parts of it. They use it when it suits their 'beliefs'. Christians do NOT just vote on beliefs, I don't believe that for a minute.

Just because they match the values of the bible doesn't make it wrong. Why don't you tell us what really bothers you about Christianity? Did some christian do something to you as a kid and now you hate everybody.

Every 18 year old American can vote on whatever they want too. Doesn't bother me one way or another. I hope more people do vote. Its our responsibility and civil duty. I think its already very obvious what 'bothers' me about Christians. Read my comments again and its very clear. I don't hate anyone, that's to strong of a word. However, I find it interesting when those in the Christian religion SPEW hatred because someone doesn't agree with their 'beliefs'.

Nobody is shoving anything down your throats. It's not like you turn on the computer and see articles on Gay marriage, gay hotels, gay celebrities, gay etc. I don't see many articles that stress christian living here on MSNBC. So I guess your points fail in that respect.

Oh really? What country are you living in. I see plenty of articles on MSNBC, and many other media outlets where some "Christian" religion is shoving their beliefs down our throats. How many examples you want because I have plenty. My point isn't a failure. Christians 'feel' threatened that their 'beliefs' (which are not civil rights) are being taken away. When in reality, they were never a right to begin with.

If you want to live in a country where there are a limited number of christians,....... Try Iran.

I respect all religions of the world, because they are basically the same thing. What I do not and will never respect, is any religion that thinks their beliefs are stronger than the secular laws of the United States.

AppeasersFate said:

What if the priest married a real bitch that wouldn't do her duty?

WHOA!!!!!!!

EXCUSE ME.

Marriage is an equal partnership. If a woman does not feel like having sex she does not have to. If a man does not feel like having sex (yes, it does happen) he does not have to. Sex is not a 'duty'. I do not own my husband's body, nor does he own mine. My body is mine to do with as I please. So is his. We have been married for 10 years and have two children and never once have we felt sex was a 'duty'.

Your referring to a woman as a 'bitch' and not doing 'her duty' is offensive to every woman out there.

All due respect to your service--I saw a prior post where you said you'd been in Nam, so was my Dad--but your attitude needs some adjustment. And your language.

SEX IS NOT A WOMAN"S 'DUTY'.

...oh, and by the way, the Obama/Latinos...comment? swearing? diatribe?...I would call it a rant but there aren't even enough words to qualify--MAJOR DERAIL.

Frogmorton!

I have reported your personal attacks and don't pretend to be the expert on sexuality.

Too bad you can't handle facts. The overwhelming criminal issues with Sandusky and the Catholic priests are pedophilia with young boys...NOT GIRLS, and the cover-ups.

I don't give a rat's ass about your convoluted opinions.

You won't last long on NV if you continue with your ad-hominem attacks...guaranteed.

I don't pretend to be an expert. I reported actual criminal stats from the studies done on Priest Sexual Abuse. You're the one telling lies, punkin.

Sandusky, as well -- who was he supervising? Boys. Just like the catholic priests in churches. But, in catholic schools, the population of victims closely mirrored the gender of the school population.

Why do you need to lie in order to make your argument? It is a fact -- pedophilia and sexual orientation are entirely separate. So, grow up.

I have reported... wah wah wah!!

Oh yeah, I already know... you people try to squelch anyone who thinks differently. You're all the kings of censorship. Don't agree? Then try to silence them -- and with your lame argument skills and obvious tendency to lie, it's the only way you can come close to winning an argument.

unhappy: Perhaps when atheists actually outspend christians in terms of caring for others, then you would have the right to speak.

There isn't a single christian lowlife who has spent as much for charity as those horrible atheists, Bill & Melinda Gates.

So, go blow that one out your butt end, "unhappy"...

Poor Catholics; can't kill their way to the top, have to obey laws.... if you once ruled the world, you wouldn't like CHANGE either.

I've always wanted to go undercover and pretend to convert to Catholicism just to experience the brainwashing first hand... it probably does work as well on adults as it does children, plus, I doubt I have the poker-face to pull it off.

Unhappy; most religious people never go to main stream media sources - they are like my brother, who goes to whacked out sources like End Times. With all of these sources that cater to specific mind sets, why would main stream media try and compete with them? You don't ask Green Bay Packer fans to follow their team at ESPN or Fox Sports when they can get every detain of what they want to know from sources that feature only Packer information.

The only people who go to sources/sites that oppose their views, are the ones who can't resist confrontation. None of us are so special that we have the power to convert others who have arrived at their views over many years of weighing all the evidence. That said; why would anybody defend the history of all religions?

Unhappy; most religious people never go to main stream media sources - they are like my brother, who goes to whacked out sources like End Times. With all of these sources that cater to specific mind sets, why would main stream media try and compete with them?

DrainBramage: You are very much mistaken about saying that religious people never go to main stream media sources. How else do you think we get our news?

What I do happen to find is that most atheists ONLY look at main stream news in order to get their daily fix. The news is completely fitted to their way of thinking and so they see no other sides except what the media projects. As for those other sites like " End Times" ( which I've gone to as well), I get to see what "good" other christians are doing in different parts of the world; a fact that is not shown in the US by main stream media because it would upset their liberal way of thinking( ex. christians are bad...yada yada yada). So much for thinking that christians aren't well informed.

That said; why would anybody defend the history of all religions?

My point exactly. If atheists only tune in to what the main stream media wants you to think then they are just as guilty as those christians who do the same thing too.

There isn't a single christian lowlife who has spent as much for charity as those horrible atheists, Bill & Melinda Gates.

FrogMorton: So what you are saying is that Bill and Melinda Gates contributions excuse you from you giving your own contributions? Typical of an atheist...... Let others do it instead of me. How much of their income in percentage do they actually give away?

Frogmorton!

You can blame no one for your eventual censorship from Newsvine. Keep attacking others, keep name calling and you'll disappear just like thousands of trolls and misfits have. It is your personal attacks that are unnecessary and offensive. I'm seeing a pattern and I've seem too may times what happens to "you people".

I shared my opinion and you called me a gay basher. I have never spoken to you before and I won't ever again after this experience.

So why haven't more priests been brought to Justice for raping and abusing young children? And do you believe that the parents of the victims were never aware of the priests' bad behavior?? Or did they turn a blind eye to protect the Church over their own child?

FrogMorton: I just found out that Bill and Melinda Gates like to contribute to their own Charity the most. Which doesn't really go to help people so much in that it provides them with business opportunities.

So much for them catering to the poor and the destitute.

It appears (frogmorton especially) that pedophiles are jerry sandusky and Catholic priests. I don't personally know any of the priests, but I do know three public school teachers that were involved with their students and one that was involved in "kiddy porn". It seems that priests are especially vilified ( they should be punished), mostly because of being catholic. The church was wrong in it's handling, but the church isn't out looking for them to make them priests and providing children to them.

Really? are you sure of that? Do some homework and see just how many do participate in the American Political Process. Either using their $$ or attempting to spew their religious beliefs as the secular laws of the United States. Far as I am concerned, any religion that participates in the process is in violation of the 501(c)(3) and should be taxed.

It's About Time:

Does your facts include those that support Gay rights? If so, you know they should be forced to pay the penalty as well. What about the church that Obama formerly went to? Have you ever heard of the quotes done by Rev. Jeremiah Wright? Don't those count? I'm sure they got their tax- exempt status as well.

If there were no organized religions, the world may be a happier place. Religion divides people. Oh but religion DOES indeed care about what party a candidate represents. Some Christians LOVE to 'influence' candidates based on their religion and then use that influence to change secular law.

Are you trying to use North Korea as an example? I think the ratio there is that 71% of the people are atheists. Yeah.... we all know how happy North Korea is.

Just because Christians make up the majority doesn't mean anything. Christianity is not the official religion of the United States of America. As long as amendment #1 stands, it never will be either. I am still waiting for you to produce a reptutable source that says Christians give more to charities than everyone else. If they do, does that mean they are 'superior' to everyone else?

Why don't you ask the IRS and see if they keep tabs on the numbers? Other than that, I can't give a reputable source except to say ask anybody who does taxes for a living and see what their response is. Most accountants that have spoken to on this site say it is true, and I know I have my tax receipts to prove it as well. It does not make christians superior to everyone else. But I'm glad you are recognizing the fact, that christians do more than preach about the bible.

Sorry, but not all Christians read the entire bible and quite a few Christians love to use 'some parts of the bible and ignore other parts of it. They use it when it suits their 'beliefs'. Christians do NOT just vote on beliefs, I don't believe that for a minute.

That's not a real argument, just your opinion.

Oh really? What country are you living in. I see plenty of articles on MSNBC, and many other media outlets where some "Christian" religion is shoving their beliefs down our throats. How many examples you want because I have plenty. My point isn't a failure. Christians 'feel' threatened that their 'beliefs' (which are not civil rights) are being taken away. When in reality, they were never a right to begin with.

The only articles I see on MSNBC about christianity have a liberal spin to it. They want you to think they are shoving it down your throats. You know where I think Gays are shoving it down other people's throats?Try the Boy Scouts of America. Here is a private organization and still the media is shoving it's liberal beliefs down the throats of people. Another one is the Susan B. Komen Foundation and Planned Parenthood, remember? Liberals wanted to shove their beliefs down other people's throats because they did not want to lose the funding for abortions. The list could go on and on as well......

Something I have always said. If you walk into the Vatican, and look around and see what they have and what they are worth financially, and what they are SUPPOSE to stand for, and then you stop and think about those who are starving in this world, it makes you wonder, how their followers can be so blind, to the Ponzi scheme they tied the name of Christ to.

@ Only in America-2604171

I said this for years, the amount of money requires for Vatican to maintenance everything they have would cost a fortune. They have literally party every night, private butlers, maids, securities, cars, escort, jets, houses. They are in fact one of the richest organization in the world.

If you think how much they spent each day, you would know that most money are for them, only a small amount actually for helping the poor. They also pick and choose where to help that benefit them the most.

If any indication, take a look at what the Pope said recently to the nuns in America, "It's not the job of nuns to help the poor, you need to prioritize yourself more to fight against the homosexual".

Catholic helps the poor is a thing of the past, they only help where they can spread theirs influence even more.

You know, if they were following the Bible's teachings on this matter, not only would these priests been removed from the priesthood, they would have been kicked out of the church. Read 1 Corinthians 5 and tell me what conclusion you would come to. Then also read Romans 13:1-7. The governments are here on God's authority to carry out relative law and justice. (Its not perfect, but it is better than anarchy.) Therefore, the church would not work against the authorities when it comes to prosecuting sex offenders.

However, at all levels the Church has deviated so far from the original message of Christianity that it causes one to wonder if they could still be considered Christian. That is for God to judge, but when I read the words of the Bible, I see a very large contrast between THAT message and the actions I see from the church.

Matthew 7:15-20 - “Be on the watch for the false prophets that come to YOU in sheep’s covering, but inside they are ravenous wolves. 16 By their fruits YOU will recognize them. Never do people gather grapes from thorns or figs from thistles, do they? 17 Likewise every good tree produces fine fruit, but every rotten tree produces worthless fruit; 18 a good tree cannot bear worthless fruit, neither can a rotten tree produce fine fruit. 19 Every tree not producing fine fruit gets cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Really, then, by their fruits YOU will recognize those [men]."

Unhappy-1583758

Does your facts include those that support Gay rights? If so, you know they should be forced to pay the penalty as well. What about the church that Obama formerly went to? Have you ever heard of the quotes done by Rev. Jeremiah Wright? Don't those count? I'm sure they got their tax- exempt status as well.

Read with comprehension. Any church that is part of the American political process should pay taxes. I think that already covers your questions above.

Are you trying to use North Korea as an example? I think the ratio there is that 71% of the people are atheists. Yeah.... we all know how happy North Korea is.

Such a narrow-mind. How many wars have been fought on earth because one religion tries to dominate another? Did you just forget about the Crusades? Focus on the bigger issue here, no some simpleton approach.

Why don't you ask the IRS and see if they keep tabs on the numbers? Other than that, I can't give a reputable source except to say ask anybody who does taxes for a living and see what their response is. Most accountants that have spoken to on this site say it is true, and I know I have my tax receipts to prove it as well. It does not make christians superior to everyone else. But I'm glad you are recognizing the fact, that christians do more than preach about the bible.

Where I come from, if someone wants to 'post a fact', they back it up. So any notion or fact that you have that Christian's donate more to charities is ignored. Christians do donate to many charities in the world, but let's not forget their crimes against HUMANITY before they 'evolved' towards a better state. \

That's not a real argument, just your opinion.

Oh but it is.... How many Christians ignore the OTestament, but use it regularly against gays/lesbians.

The only articles I see on MSNBC about christianity have a liberal spin to it. They want you to think they are shoving it down your throats. You know where I think Gays are shoving it down other people's throats?Try the Boy Scouts of America. Here is a private organization and still the media is shoving it's liberal beliefs down the throats of people.

LOL then why do you read MSNBC? If it doesn't suit your palette, perhaps you can go do another sight? There is no liberal spin on anything. First, the Boy Scouts of America receives federal tax dollars. Guess what, that makes it 'illegal' to deny gay/lesbians civil rights. Revoke their tax exempt status, make them a private organization, and then they can do whatever they want. Any organization that gets my tax dollars should no be a discriminatory one.

Another one is the Susan B. Komen Foundation and Planned Parenthood, remember? Liberals wanted to shove their beliefs down other people's throats because they did not want to lose the funding for abortions. The list could go on and on as well......

Ohh.. see this is where you do NOT do your homework. Show me a financial statement from Planned Parenthood in which they used taxdollars to pay for an abortion? When you are done doing your homework (although I doubt you will), you will not see it. They use the taxpayer dollars for something else. In case you missed it, Planned parenthood does a lot more than abortions.

P.S. Did you notice that the GOP is preventing a bill in Congress that would have allowed women (who are raped in the military and end up pregnant) from using their insurance? Hmmmm... more involvement from the "RIGHTIES" trying to enforce what women can and cannot do w/their bodies.

Makes sense. That way the women can produce more molestation targets.

and against gay marriage.............WOW!

It's all just SO ..........Catholic. Hahahahahahahahaah. Sad but true

The pope and his sidekicks need to deal with these evil priests molesters. Leave the nuns alone - they do the real work for the church and for the people.

Lin -- You must be joking. The pope and his sidekicks have been closing their eyes and been aiding and abetting by keeping these molesters within their ranks. They should all be thrown in jail for a long time. And the pope had the gall to criticize a group of American nuns for trying to help humanity but not spending enough time endorsing the nonsense he spouts.

But of course they don’t want any kind of birth control, if birth
control was to be allowed by the Catholic Church then where would they get the
poor children to rape and abuse? Think about it; they’re nothing more than a
bunch of pedophiles that thrive on the ignorance of the weak minded and poorly
educated. I only wish there really was a hell so that all these sick bastards
could burn in it.

The Pope is the number 1 molestor because he is the head of the snake! He does nothing about it, except play with his beads, or possibly a priest.

As a former cradle Catholic I'm completely flabbergasted why every priestly pedophile is not behind bars. All of these instances are criminal offenses!! Criminal offenses for the Cardinal Law's of the world (and the Pope who was also involved in various cover-ups). But no, lets spirit them out of town and give them a cushy job in the Vatican until they pass on! Ah yes, but in the spirit of christian forgiveness and contrition, most of these folks feel the've been absolved. Absolved Hell!!

uchusky99, doing the right thing effects the collection plate. That is all religion is about anyway.

I am a Christian and most of our neighbors are Catholics. We are all completely blown away that ANY church would protect lawbreakers and sinners and keep them gainfully employed instead of blowing the whistle. I don't care what faith you are; sin is sin and should be punished. Breaking the law should be punished here on Earth. Breaking God's moral code should and will be punished in heaven.

joe. you're surprised that churches balk at personal responsibility? really? where have you been living all these years...

"And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all of them who sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, and said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves."

Child molesters, a doctrine of hate and judgment, vaults of valuables, a Bank on the property, Is there really any doubt what Jesus would do with the Vatican ?

I am an older adult, attended catholic school from K through 8. Now 66 yrs into this life I am quite cognizant of the abuse, both today and many years ago - retrospectively, it's takent ime to realize the extent of the damage, yet I know, painfully, that many have suffered much more than I have.

Please; take the necessary time to consider the damage done to the children we know, as well as those we do not know - I cry for the direct damage done to the many; I also cry for the many in the wake of the damage NEVER owned by the 'Church'.

At this point in time i can only say: Listen to your 'highest self', and contribute, in whatever way, to the greater good, as you are able to envision..........

Thank you, and, may your God be with you.....!

Why don't we start with the Nazi Pope, his secretary and all those who turn a deliberately blind eye to this and then scapegoat gay people who are living decent lives with partners and raising families as the "problem" Excuse me holy fathers but there is something very wrong with this picture. The Catholic church has more money than God yet it is closing schools and shutting down programs while protecting child molestation and giving these criminals a pass. It's time to jerk tax exemptions, make them pay for rehab programs, and get their noses out of secular life so they can get back to what they should be doing taking care of their sheep instead of abusing them and their children. The campaign by the nuns who are busing their way across America in defiance of the unhealthy and corrupt church are one step in the right direction. Time to reform the Catholic chuch and see that it follows the Christ for real not just for the money. Silks, satins, gold and greed with twisted appetites. That's the church today.

Child molesters, a doctrine of hate and judgment, vaults of valuables, a Bank on the property, Is there really any doubt what Jesus would do with the Vatican ?

Well since you brought it up:

Child molesters

Child molestors are in every large institution on the planet, not just the Catholic Church. You might argue that the cover-up was the issue, but I don't think Jesus would denounce the Vatican for that alone.

a doctrine of hate and judgment

As opposed to the "Anything goes" philosophy? Assuming you believe the Bible, you'd know that God had very strict rules imposed upon Israel in the OT. Would you call that hate and judgement too? Or would you say the God of the OT isn't the same one as the God you know? Or maybe Paul was hateful and judgemental.

vaults of valuables, a Bank on the property

The Temple was supposed to be breathtakingly beautiful and ornate (comparable to what people think of the Vatican, except the Vatican is actually used for running the Church). Jesus never once had an issue with the Temple's opulence, however. In fact, as you stated, he drove money changers out of it. Also, despite what you may believe, those in the Vatican don't just have free shipments of food and material coming in. They have to BUY it, hence the bank. The Vatican has an annual operating budget of $270 million. Compare that to the University of Notre Dame, which is about $700 million.

Child molestors are in every large institution on the planet, not just the Catholic Church

Wow. Amazing. All the rest of the time, the Cartholic Cult is the "one true way to god" having "the best family values, the best overall values" and they "hold themselves to a higher standard than everyone else" ...

...and yet, the very minute they get caught, suddenly, they're just like "every other person or institution on the planet" -- they immediately compare themselves to everyone else, and say "hey! they do it, too!!"

YOU CULTISTS ARE NOTHING BUT LIARS AND FRAUDS!

-- they immediately compare themselves to everyone else, and say "hey! they do it, too!!"

Wouldn't have to if people didn't focus solely on the Catholic Church. Public schools have pedophiles in them, yet I see far more of an outcry against priests than I do against teachers. When people stop acting like the Catholic Church is the be all and end all of pedophilia, then having to compare won't be neccessary.

Anyways, I was speaking to sam saying that if we gonna be condemned by Jesus for having pedophiles among the ranks, then most if not all institutions and denominations would be condemned for the same thing.

But you can't listen to me because I'm a liar and a fraud.

There's no Satan and all religion should be abolished.

To me the Pope is the Satan.

I was raised a catholic and this is one of the reasons I am no longer a catholic the chuch is well known for covering this stuff up while the pope sits in his little golden room and continues to tell the world how they shuld live. Religion is religion you need a religion to believe in our savior what is needed is Christianity. I hope and pray that this preist pay for what he did. I have no pity for this kind of BS and never will. It's about time the catholic church admits to all the coverups and wrong doing.

@Cassandra-2164063 "mafia organization" Is close but lets call it what it is. A cult.

A lot of similarities to be sure. Except that mafia types don't necessarily need to believe in dancing unicorns or the ability to convert thought into mythical energy; AKA prayer.

Johnnyvox three words for you...you are brainwashed! Your church wants to dictate government policy and yet not only do they NOT pay taxes they receive tax dollars,I say enough is enough Keep your " GOD" out of my face!! Oh and your pedofiles!

The Catholic Church is the Christ founded.

The Catholic church has been peddling that myth for 1400 years. Real history place the formation of the present catholic church a min of 400 years after Christ.

If you want to understand the origins of this molestation craze, read the book Goodbye, Good Men, about the way creeps were specifically selected by modernist, post-Vatican II "Catholic" in-name-only seminaries.

Want to try that one again. The abuse cases go back hundreds of years (just ask the Irish). Abuse was massive in the 1940 and 1950's Thats place the the crimes 20 plus years before Vatican II ( 1967 TO 1968 I belive). The Church leaders that protect these lowlifes got they collars long before Vatican II.

The Pope is not Satan, rather, the office of Pope is the rightful successor to the first Bishop of Rome, Peter.

May not Satan but any pope that allowes a single child to harmed is not a fit to invoke christ name. as for successor to Peter sorry wrong again. The early christian belifs of Peter of did not live past 400 AD. Woman were the driven force and made up the majority of christians before that date. After Roman emporor turned the empire christian in 437 and formed the begings of the ROME CATHOLIC to harness the power of Christian beleif the new church was nothing more than another arm of the Empire and the First real Pope was named. To back the story of a unbroken line to Peter the title of pope and bishop of rome was confered backwards to Peter. Historians don't even believe some the name popes even existed befroe the formetion of the church. After the formation of the RC they went on a holy war to distrory all the other sects and only unifed the church around 700 AD after killing off every group within reach of The holy Roman empire.

"Theology is the effort to explain the unknowable in terms of the not worth knowing." H.L. Menken

"A casual stroll through the lunatic asylum shows that faith does not prove anything."Friedrich Nietzsche

"Religion; the opiate of the masses." Karl Marx

From a recovered Catholic (Irish, the worst kind!)

Johnny Voxx... Jesus, the Christ, was born a Jew. Do your homework. Thank you, Grey beard.

Sometimes I wonder why people are so shocked that the Catholic Church is corrupt when it's always been that way. Popes had whole illegitimate families (Borgia), bishops sold "indulgences" to wealthy men, absolving them of whatever sin for a fee, and I'm willing to bet there was child molestation then, too, we just didn't know about it. In earlier times the Church was more powerful than many heads of state. There's a reason we evolved away from that. Religions are formed by people, not by God. And people are susceptible to corruption and becoming abusers (in all sorts of ways) when they have, or perceive themselves to have, a lot of power. The whole organization is corrupt from the top on down the line, a fact that has been shown again and again with these molestation cases coming to light. Faith is blind, and we can't afford to be blind anymore.

I have a friend who half-joking, half-serious say that he wanted to start a Catholics anonymous 12 step group. He said the catholic church really f0cked him up.

"I was just following orders" wasn't a defence for the war criminals, it shouldn't be a defence for clergy.

Religious institutions should not be thought of as above the law. These religious leaders make me sick, thinking they have the right to handle things internally and avoid law enforcement. They do this because it's better for the offender, to hell with the victims (no pun intended). Funny how some people spread the fear of the possibility of Muslims refusing to follow government laws in our country, while these Catholics are guilty of the very same thing.

Since these religious institutions are creating aburden on our government, then they should participate and be taxed appropriately. I cannot stand these monsters who hide behind their morally superior book, until it is exposed that they are WORSE than most average people.

@ Debra0450533, I agree with your statement. This to include our military. Women serving our country should not be subject to injustices and be perceived as troublemakers. This crime and/or offences are matters for police.

ANd the Nazi War Criminals also said they were just following orders - another way of saying just doing my job.

That's what the Nazi Leadership said when put on trial after the war, "only following orders".

Then Who is his boss? Who ordered him to "do his job". That's where the real problem lies.

The guys at the top who hand down these mandates to hide these criminals are the real CRIMINALS.

I was only following orders! Funny how the John pauls II right hand man and now pope himself was a nazi himself. The war time pope cared more for the churchs gold than human life or man's soles. The church doing the war and when they cover up the abuses of the priests acted to degin Christ millions of more times than Peters three. They have nothing to do with Peter or Christ.

No, Captain Ron 22, the real criminals are the pedophiles priests. Closely following that are the administrators/priests that discovered the crime and did not do anything to stop it or covered it all up.

Gay beard---YOU may have some point, but since you aren't typing in coherent English we won't get it..That is a shame because I would like to read your thoughts....Take a little time and read your comment before you post and make sure it makes sense..And click on the abc check mark button and then click on the words underlined, it will give you a list of words and one of them might be the word you were trying to spell...

"Hopefully the time for looking the other way while evil people are preying on innocence is over."

Taken a gander at Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, etc. lately?

We must start at home:)

Douglas, Pa. We all call Earth home.

The Catholic Church, through the Pope, has officially appologized for letting this continue. Yes, the Catholic Church is partnered with the pedophiles that did this.

As a former Catholic, I am waiting for the church to start excommunicating these vile men.

I suspect I will be waiting a very long time. The Vatican probably needs to finish correcting those horrible feminist American nuns first.

Just Fred, I understand that not all Catholic priests are pedophiles, and not all Catholics condone this sickening, horrible behavior. But my question is this: If the institutional structure of the Catholic Church encourages, permits or allows these crimes to occur, what is the average church goer going to do about it? Let the leaders figure it out? I wish the Church was not so hierarchical that the lay person in the congregation doesn't have a voice. There are obviously not enough preventative measures in place to protect these children and the leaders are criminally slow in making change. Perhaps the members of each church should implement their own protections. Buck that authority and take back your Churches!

The catholic church most certainly did do this for decades and had

an elaborate system in place to protect the rapist priests and no matter

how much you deny the truth, the pope knew, and knows.

They allow these priests to flourish, admit no wrong, blah blah blah. Then now recently, Church via the Prada pumps wearing Pope, is harrassing the nuns for being too liberal in their interpretations of the Church Doctrine.

Don't even get me started on birth control because as soon as the Pill was being popped by everyone including myself in the 70's those gents went flipping crazy. My mother had 4 kids within 6 yrs and two miscarriages in between. She nearly bled to death delivering my younger sister, but they could not do a hyterectomy to save her life without some damn permission slip from someone at the church.

When I married my grandmother took me by the ear and said "your not going to take that pill are you?" in a very accusatory tone. I replied-"when the Pope pays my medical expenses, furnishes my baby's room and buys all the clothes and then pays my hospital bill, then, and only then, can he tell me what pill I can or cannot take." Finally, some of today's society can say they took their lives back and out from under the intolerance/rules that are made by MEN..

The RCC is now one of the most evil institutions that operates world-wide. To say that it was not involved in the cover-up and protection from law-enforcement investigation and prosecution of Catholic child molesters is preposterous. It did do these things and knowingly availed many of the innocents to horrible and evil things!!!!!!!!! God have mercy on those that support this organization.

The Catholic Church, through the Pope, has officially appologized for letting this continue.

Baloney. They still persecute the victims for coming forward, and fight to the end to avoid paying ANY remuneration to victims without a full-on trial, and then, they appeal until the victims wear out.

The goddam Pedophile Catholic Cult is a complete FRAUD.

Absolute power corrupts absolutely.

I could not agree with you more, thought770948; my mother became pregnant 9 times, miscarried very late in her pregnancy all but two (my sister and I). After her final stillbirth, she had a nervous breakdown, and sought solace within the Catholic Church. Rather than suggest she seek psychiatric help, her priest put a Bible in her hand and told her to pray. My aunt told me this just a few years ago when I asked if my Mom was always so troubled.

I am (or was) a Catholic, received a Catholic education, but no longer attend Church. Why? Because I choose to use my free will (was always told God gave us all free will) and cannot abide the Catholic Church that denies ANYONE full use of a God-given gift.

Those priests, bishops, and cardinals who consciously CHOSE not to report illegal acts to the police (because they were only following orders) are no better than common criminals and Nazis.

Leave the nuns alone. They seem to be the ONLY Catholics that know what the right thing is, and are actually doing it.

thought-770984... Right on the money. It's okay, though, for men to have access to Viagra or Cialis and walk around with a woody all day. Talk about your basic double standard! If I were a woman I'd be tempted to tell men "NO MORE" until women's rights are restored. Cut 'em off. Maybe then they'd understand. But I doubt it. We can be a thick headed lot, us men. And I'm probably preaching to the choir here. Now we've got the (Republican) politicians telling women what they can and can't do with their bodies. An un-natural fixation, if you ask me. Like what is their problem? (Hypocrisy comes to mind.)

Jet-1092441... I was raised Catholic as well and was taught by nuns. I couldn't agree more. They're the only ones in this world that seem to have a trace of morality left . "Heaven help us all." Stevie Wonder

Just Fred - you are right the church didn't rape those little boys; however, people in the church victimized those kids again, transfered these priests and let them continue to work with kids. Turning a blind eye and standing by without helping the defensless is probably worse than the man raping the kids to begin with.

Moving the fox to a different farm won't stop it from killing the chickens. You have to solve the problem.

You started out right, but its not just poor black people who get screwed, its anyone who doesn't have the money to defend themselves in this richest takes all society we live in.

Why is it these esteemed pillars of the community are evil, vile men! And when exposed, they are protected? Sick, just sick!

Innocent not innocence.... Among many other mistakes.....I enjoy reading comments, but it reads like a child typed it...Are you in first grade?I make mistakes too, but you typed it twice so it seems like it is not a mistake, but you really talk like that.............

Budship ----- OJ's murder trial was indeed a farce, but have you noticed what his current address is? Robert Blake was acquited because the jury felt the evidence was so flimsy that it did not prove guilt. That is what is supposed to happen. Do you have stronger evidence? If you do, please publish it. If so, it's too late to imprison him for it, double jeopardy, ya know! But, it would help to ruin his reputation, worse than it is now. And might help his step daughters in their civil case against him, just as Fred Goldman managed to hold OJ's feet to the fire and eventually, indirectly, caused OJ's current incarceration. The step daughters tried, you know, but their so-called case was quite flimsy and it didn't fly. If you do not have such information, SHUT UP!

If you wish to believe that ALL priests abuse children, then you are very sad indeed.

What you should be 'pissed off' at is the institution of the Catholic Church that is so powerful that it feels it is above the law. Just because its 'secular' doesn't mean its wrong.

Please don't paint all priests (or nuns for that matter) with the same brush; there are many, many priests and nuns who take their calling seriously, and would never abuse thier position.

the whole goddam cult is corrupt. If YOU think any different, then YOU are sad indeed.

what's even worse -- all the people who KNOW about this filthy goddam cult, and they still send it money, feeding this foul cult of molestation and rape. and it still goes on! they're still getting caught diddling kids!

WTF is wrong with ANYONE who still belongs to this filthy goddam cult and still sends money???

throw that fu*&ing BuyBull away and learn to THINK FOR YOURSELVES! Criminy!! Lose the cultism!!

the whole goddam cult is corrupt. If YOU think any different, then YOU are sad indeed.

Frogmorton, if you had any evidence other than your own prejudice, you might be believable. Come on just try and give me evidence to indicate that you are right and every single person in the hierarchy is corrupt. I know you can't believe me because I'm a fraud and liar, but I'm sure you wouldn't skew the truth. You are above that (or so you claim).

They report theft! A priest takes their money, they call the police.

I don't think that's how it goes. God told us to follow the laws of our country unless they went directly against Him. I can't imagine God would find anything wrong with pedophile priests being handed over to the authorities.

wow i'm shocked not shocked that finally someone is facing charges on something that has benn taking place way too long

You're not trying to equate homosexuality and pedophilia, I hope. I do agree about the idiocy of celibacy, tho.

Allowing priests to marry would have done nothing to stop this from happening....hey, it didn't stop Jerry Sandusky, did it? What makes you think that saying 'I do' would stop a pedophile from abusing a child? Don't be naive.

Incidentally, I agree that celibacy within the priesthood is inherently wrong, but for entirely different reasons.

There are many happily married people out there that are pedophiles.

Sexual attraction towards children has nothing to do with marital status or sexual orientation. Matter of fact, it has a lot to do with control and power issues.

CanU -- part of the problem has been people (maybe like yourself) who are more interested in bashing gay people, and they use this sort of situation to carry out their hatred for gays. It's enormously stupid, because, in the end you blame the wrong people for the pedophilia.

If you want the problem SOLVED, then put away your hatred for gays (and anyone else) long enough to place the blame where it belongs. Pedophilia has nothing to do with sexual orientation. It is a mental illness that focuses on children -- controlling them, grooming them, dominating them, often raping them.

If you can't be reasonably intelligent about solving the problem, then you have a lot of growing up to do.

Unfortunately, for mainstream christian America, the inability to Live Their Values Every Day seems to plague every person i've ever met who claimed to be a christian. they spread more hate and intolerance than any people i've ever known...

And then they wonder why people on the outside looking in are disinterested in joining this lousy cult they belong to. if the mythical jesus-creature was actually Real, his crap would be incurably runny by now...

By all means prosecute to the full extent of the law.When a person speaks in absolutes and superlatives we know they are too young to take seriously. It is a stretch to say all you do.Our civilization springs from RC and christianity,how would you excise them from history.

And the church wants to tell people how to live and stop using birth control. Before the church tells every one what to do, they need to clean out their own closets. The church needs to pay their fair share in taxes, and not have a free ride on the people!!!!

Finally, a layer, however small, of the shi^^y filth that wraps religious law is peeled back enough for common decency and justice to serve those who have been trampled by Its "holy evil".

They will have to keep him segregated from the general pop. Convicts may have committed crimes, but they give very short shrift to pedophiles amongst them.

LOL! Even convicts like to take their anger out on someone, to show they have a "good side".

Just like christians in America -- they ignore most of their laws and tenets, but when they go out and crusade against gays, they denigrate and demean gay men and lesbians at every chance, they think they are showing their jesus-myth that they are REAL BuyBull believing christians, in spite of the fact that they ignore every other goddam thing in that filthy cult-book of theirs.

Crusading against gays -- the way modern christians prove they are Righteous!

So a wife would prevent pedophilia? I know lots of single men who aren't getting any action that would never, ever consider touching a child. And I'm very certain there are lots of married men that are looking at child porn and molesting children. These sick priests are using their power and authority on unsuspecting, unprotected victims who are taught to never question them. I highly doubt that the 'motive' or drive to rape young boys is a simple case of being horny.

There is no god! Learn to think for yourself, and you may be surprised to find being call a sheep is not a compliment.

Bejoh,I wonder how being married would stop the priests from being baby rapers?

I don't think this is only a Catholic problem,but right now they are in the spotlight,I know of cases where pastors from other religions are guilty of the same thing,difference being the pastors are married.I am not trying to flame you,just that I think that a pedophile is a pedophile married or not,clergy or not.I do think the church was and is wrong for not reporting the offenders to the police and then kicking them out of the church.

In 1139 the Catholic Church banned their priests from being married and several of them left the priesthood instead of giving up their families. Celibacy was never a requirement for devotion/service to God's work, just the Church's work. They obviously need to rethink that policy. Folks can read more about this at  http://www.elandar.com/back/summer02/stories/story_mejia.html. What exactly is their tolerance level for abuse until they decide to change?  Still people should not let this incident, as unfortunate as it is, to deter their faith in God. God never made these sick men hurt those children.

Triniwriter:

Partially true. The Council of Elvira in Spain (around 306AD) was the first to prohibit bishops, deacons and priests from marrying. The Second Lateran Council in 1139, of which you write about, was only the largest body to put it in writing. However, there has always been dissent from this rule due to the weakness of the flesh. This issue ebbs and flows with time and the secular influences.

It is not out of the realm of possibilities. There are some married Catholic priests now with most of them having been given dispensation from the Church as former Anglican priests. Within the past few years, over 100 Anglican parishes in the US have petitioned Rome under Anglicanorum Coetibus to be received back into the Latin Rite Church. Many of them have married pastors.

However, they are so taught that. I think priests need to be married. Then these things would not happened

Some of you REALLY need to get an education.

If they need to be taught not to have sex with children then they should not be around them.

enough with the consipiracy theories. He was convicted (or not) by a jury. I don't believe all the jurors were catholic or otherwise biased in favor of the church. The jury decides, not the government or a religious institution. The jury is us. Regular folk. And given he was convicted of something, why do you still complain? You want him burned? I understand the feeling, but that is not the right response.

Yes, it is the right response, stoopid.

Christians are, therefore, faced with a dilemma: when assaulted by
evil, they must oppose it through direct action. They have no other option. Any
failure to act is simply to condone evil.

Ethics... Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Hey Einstein, this is not a reason to leave the church. This is a reason to train Priest differently, in the training days for idiots the training process didn't go over sexuality, and this was likely the cause. For a grown man, no matter what their vocation, to say they did all they could to help anyone being raped by an someone else, and that help did not include calling the police, that is just stupid and immature.

Like the Secret Service, there was a code within the Priesthood that they could deal with the problems themselves, and they couldn't.

As is this reason to leave the Catholic Church? Maybe the person who was raped, but the Church is more then the Priesthood, which currently is a smaller part of the Church currently.

But, on the other hand, Catholics do have a right to act as a free person, which would include turning thei back on the Catholic Church. I just hope that isn't the case.

This is actually a great reason to leave the Church. Really, your excuse for all the child rape is a lack of training? You're ridiculous. Most people haven't "received training" about not molesting children and yet haven't molested any anyway.

The fact that day in and day out we're watching Priests and other members of the Catholic church hierarchy being sent away should tell anyone with half a brain that there's something rotten going on in the Catholic church. In any case, I'm glad my parents pulled us out of the catholic church when I was a kid. My butt is much better off without a Catholic priest in it.

Leave the Church????

It's a great reason to DISMANTLE that goddam church, shut it down and sell it all off. Pay half to back taxes, and the other half to all its victims.