Only courage can save Belgium's church

Following the report on sexual abuse at Belgium's Catholic Church the bishops have announced that the establishment of an independent help centre for victims. But this is not enough, professor of theology Rik Torfs writes in the daily De Standaard, addressing the bishops directly: "It is time Belgian bishops took the initiative and told the Pope clearly: We want transparent and independent action against sexual abuse. But you must also make your contribution here. Have the courage to reflect on the dangers of concentration of power. It is wrong that legislative, executive and judiciary power is consolidated in one hand in the church. Power corrupts. An authoritarian, uncontrolled balance of power leads to sexual abuse. ... It is the duty of local church leaders to say this bluntly in Rome. Moral courage is the embattled church's last chance of salvation."

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