Cardinal's judgment conflicted

Cardinal George is mired in a confusion of conscience. He is prominent in criticizing Notre Dame for having President Obama as commencement speaker because of Obama's position on abortion. Protecting children in the womb is a cause Catholics will embrace. But in protecting children out of the womb from sexual abuse by his priests, the cardinal's memory fades and his conscience becomes clouded.

In Cardinal George's sworn deposition in January 2008, he uses the lame excuses of "I didn't see this before"; "I was not adequately informed"; "I wish they had given me this (sooner)..."

These were excuses for keeping Dan McCormack, his priest and convicted abuser, in ministry while the cardinal knew that McCormack had credible allegations of abuse.

How can the cardinal's confused conscience be the moral compass for those who need a witness of God, not a waffling witness during sworn testimony? Why do civil prosecutors turn a blind eye to a deposition replete with obfuscation and clear misuse of power by the cardinal and his staff? Are county, state, and federal prosecutors really busy with more important matters than protecting children from sexual predators? Are civil servants more fearful of the Catholic Church than they are of state and federal officials?

Let's compare and contrast the following: Church takes swift action to remove a priest who embezzled funds from donations; or let predators remain in ministry to repeatedly molest while proffering delays and pretending it isn't happening. This is evidence of confused conscience, poor leadership and convoluted priorities.

If you're not comfortable with this, do something. Attend a rally, create a petition, pray. Unless you do, this is simply interesting reading. Let your conscience be YOUR guide.

Tony Jannotta

Coalition of Concerned Catholics

Arlington Heights