Catholic Church has responded

After reading Connie Pohlman's comments on the Catholic Church ("Pedophile Priests Still Treated Lightly,'" April 1), I felt compelled to defend the church that Christ Himself founded.

I grieved not only for the victims she talked about, but also for her. To link an entire church and all priests to the sins of a few seems irrational and unfair. In many segments of society, there are pedophiles that may be teachers, coaches, doctors, etc. They may be from various faiths. Our justice system does convict when one is found guilty, as it has the priest whom she is writing about.

I applaud the Catholic Church for taking any allegations seriously. Being a Catholic, I have since seen the Catholic Church set up multiple programs around the country to ensure the safety of our children.

They are taking action and responsibility for the small percentage of priests who have hurt us so deeply. I'm unaware what other groups and faiths are doing to prevent this problem in their area, but I do know that since the media has chosen our church to illuminate this societal problem, the Catholic Church is indeed responding.

I know many holy priests who will suffer in silence from this general accusation that Ms. Pohlman decided to put in print. These priests serve others 24/7 by anointing the sick and dying, marrying couples, administering the sacraments of reconciliation and communion, caring for the poor and disabled, running a parish and much more.

I hope her disdain is more for the sin itself rather than the Catholic Church. In that way, we can treat the actual problem in our society and care for the victims. I pray that we stop blaming and harboring anger, and start healing and contributing to make our world a safer place for our children.

Julie Roche

Libertyville