Advocacy Group Calls For Inquiry Into Cardinal Regali's Handling Of Abuse Scandal
By Steve Tawa
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- An advocacy group for clergy sexual abuse victims is hoping Pope Francis' newly established Vatican Tribunal will look into the role of Cardinal Justin Rigali, when he headed the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.
Father James Connell, a retired priest of the Milwaukee Archdiocese and a member of the Catholic Whistleblowers Steering Committee, says the Vatican court will not function unless people bring up specifics, like Cardinal Rigali's handling of the abuse scandal.
Two grand juries presented scathing reports on his watch, in 2005 and 2011.
"In church law, there is no statute of limitations."
The tribunal is to investigate and hold bishops accountable, if they fail to protect their flock.
The advocates want the retired Cardinal Rigali removed from the College of Cardinals, which advises the Pope on church matters.
Victims' advocate Sister Maureen Paul Turlish says Cardinal Rigali, and Archbishops Bevilacqua and Cardinal Krol had only one interest in mind.
"Protect the church from scandal. It was never to protect the children."
The whistleblowers committee also seeks reparation by having Cardinal Rigali listen to those harmed, and acknowledge that his negligence was culpable.