I wish to respond to the article about the story of Anne entitled “Woman claims priest crossed boundaries, abused authority” (TMIS, 20 March). My heart goes out to the woman involved, because I know firsthand the hurt and trauma people involved in such cases go through.

These people don’t go public with their story to make money or to paint priests in a bad light; they do it because the newspaper is their last hope that someone will believe them, and to strive to continue living their life with dignity because they (the priests) make every effort to take it away from you the minute you try to deal with the situation.

I believe Anne’s account beyond any shadow of a doubt, and in no way is she crazy or insane. She has been courageous enough to go public. Just like her, there are many others who have been disgusted with the way certain priests have treated them after having entrusted their problems to them − and are now suffering in silence as a consequence.

Everyone knows by now how a certain priest who has an important role in the diocese tends to sweep such cases under the carpet without taking the victims into consideration

I do hope that Anne has friends and relatives who will back her up and believe her and I wish her luck. May God give her the courage that she needs to lead a good life.

Maria Borg