The conversation surrounding Pope Francis' legacy dominates as 135 cardinals assemble in Rome to select his successor. The issue of clergy sexual abuse remains a particularly contentious topic, with many survivors believing the late pope did not do enough. Among them is Alexa MacPherson, who suffered sexual abuse by priest Peter Kanchong from the age of three until she was nine. Her story exemplifies the Church's troubling history of protecting predators over victims.
MacPherson recounted harrowing experiences of abuse and how her father reported the situation to the police in 1984. Despite this, the Boston archdiocese prioritized its reputation over victim protection, as evidenced by a concealed letter from then-Archbishop Bernard Law, detailing efforts to shield Kanchong from scandal.
Although MacPherson's ordeal predates Pope Francis' papacy, she asserts that his administration fell short in addressing the widespread issue of child exploitation within the Church. Despite acknowledging the progress he made compared to prior leaders, MacPherson believes more decisive action is necessary. She suggests that the Church be held accountable in secular courts and emphasizes that its internal reforms are insufficient.
Francis did call for change, organizing meetings for bishops and revising Church laws to improve collaboration with civil authorities. However, critics, including MacPherson's attorney Mitchell Garabedian, argue that many problems persist, with centralized control allowing for continued secrecy surrounding abuse cases.
MacPherson reflects on the pain of observing the ongoing media attention to the Pope's funeral when she feels that unresolved issues remain. She highlights the Church's failure to defrock Kanchong and urges that individuals responsible for abuse must face consequences in civil courts.
As cardinals seek a new leader, MacPherson remains doubtful about the Church's commitment to real reform, insisting that acknowledgment of past wrongs is essential for any meaningful progress. She continues to seek justice not only for herself but for countless other victims still living in the shadow of the Church’s past.
MacPherson recounted harrowing experiences of abuse and how her father reported the situation to the police in 1984. Despite this, the Boston archdiocese prioritized its reputation over victim protection, as evidenced by a concealed letter from then-Archbishop Bernard Law, detailing efforts to shield Kanchong from scandal.
Although MacPherson's ordeal predates Pope Francis' papacy, she asserts that his administration fell short in addressing the widespread issue of child exploitation within the Church. Despite acknowledging the progress he made compared to prior leaders, MacPherson believes more decisive action is necessary. She suggests that the Church be held accountable in secular courts and emphasizes that its internal reforms are insufficient.
Francis did call for change, organizing meetings for bishops and revising Church laws to improve collaboration with civil authorities. However, critics, including MacPherson's attorney Mitchell Garabedian, argue that many problems persist, with centralized control allowing for continued secrecy surrounding abuse cases.
MacPherson reflects on the pain of observing the ongoing media attention to the Pope's funeral when she feels that unresolved issues remain. She highlights the Church's failure to defrock Kanchong and urges that individuals responsible for abuse must face consequences in civil courts.
As cardinals seek a new leader, MacPherson remains doubtful about the Church's commitment to real reform, insisting that acknowledgment of past wrongs is essential for any meaningful progress. She continues to seek justice not only for herself but for countless other victims still living in the shadow of the Church’s past.
