Here is the statement from SNAP (Survivors Network for those Abused by Priests)…SNAP is the engine whose efforts led to this pass, but they also remain on the outside of this meeting, and pushing for more. The meeting between the pope and several Boston victims in a sense puts the ball back in SNAP’s court. How this will play out is unclear. The dynamic is changing as we write.

This is a small, long-over due step forward on a very long road. We’re confident the meeting was meaningful for the participants and we’re grateful that these victims have had the courage to come forward and speak up.

But fundamentally it won’t change things. Kids need action. Catholics deserve action. Action produces reform and reform, real reform, is sorely needed in the church hierachy.
Some talk is OK. A meeting is better. Decisive reform is crucial.
We do vulnerable children a severe disservice if we set extraordinarily low expectations for a brilliant, experienced, powerful global leader like the Pope.
In the Gospel of Luke, we’re told “To whom much is given, much is expected.” The Pope has been given the reins of a vast, wealthy, powerful global monarchy. He must use those reins to safeguard the vulnerable.
We cannot confuse words – even sincere, eloquent ones – with deeds. The stakes are too high.