The recent spate of reports on child abuse by the Catholic clergy both in Malta and overseas, particularly the USA, is just the tip of a monstrous iceberg. It is high time that the Catholic Church addresses the roots of the problem rather than providing moral and material damages after the abuse has taken place. Apologising with a sweet smile will not solve the root problem! After the events happen, it is too late for the wounds to heal completely and the scars, whether they are material or moral, remain for a lifetime.

For instance, it is a well known fact that in 1 Timothy 3:12-13, church deacons were allowed to marry; in fact they had to be married and have children As a matter of fact, this practice has been implemented with great success by Christian Orthodox Churches and other Christian Churches to the greater benefit of these Churches and their members. These pastors/priests/ministers are healthier in their sexuality and have more understanding of family life.

Unfortunately, the Catholic Church has not taken on board this scripture commandment quoted above and the reason given is that the clergy should be fully dedicated to the Lord’s work. But what we find is that the works of the Lord are being taken over by the works of Satan. There are many frustrated priests and nuns who vent their frustration by abusing the vulnerable in their care. Marriage is not a sin and it can help a priest, pastor, and other members of the Church to live a holier life.

There again, the hierarchal set up of the Catholic Church is very hard and resistant to any change and as in the case of allowing female clergy, the Catholic mentality is “let sleeping dogs lie”. I am not inferring that allowing the clergy to marry is the only solution but I am sure that it will increase more vocations, and allow them to live a happier, holier and more complete life.

Anthony Zarb Dimech

SLIEMA