Let me get this straight–the Pope is criticizing Bush for recent “deplorable events”, that is the Abu Ghraib abuse scandal, which came to attention a few months ago and is not only being investigated but prosecuted, whereas the Catholic Church sexual abuse scandal has lasted decades (under the current pope’s watch)? centuries? a millenia before being investigated by the institution.
Indeed.
UPDATE: Then there’s this:
Cardinal Bernard F. Law, who was forced to resign as leader of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston after a long and painful sexual abuse scandal involving clergy members, was chosen by Pope John Paul II on Thursday to head a basilica in Rome. . . .
The appointment angered the cardinal’s critics and others who see it as a reward. . . .
The appointment could be financially lucrative for Cardinal Law. His predecessor in the job, Cardinal Furno, received a 10,000 euro monthly stipend, or about $12,000, said a former Vatican official who is a friendly acquaintance of Cardinal Furno. Cardinal Furno lived in a palatial apartment alongside the right flank of the basilica that is reserved for the archpriest, said the former official, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Not very impressive. (Much discussion in the comments here).
ANOTHER UPDATE: Hmm. This blog entry claims there’s no pay for the position. That’s not what the story says, but it could be wrong, I suppose.