Poll Analysis: Priests Say Catholic Church Facing Biggest Crisis of the Century

Most priests and members of religious orders believe the Catholic Church is currently facing the biggest crisis of this century, according to the latest Los Angeles Times poll. The survey of 1,854 priests and religious in 80 dioceses across the United States and Puerto Rico reveals a clergy who are happy in their chosen life, but who feel embattled by a barrage of negative media attention. Many also expressed concern over the Church hierarchy's handling of the crisis, and some fear loss of credibility and possible witch-hunts as more allegations -- some decades old -- come to light.

By Jill Darling Richardson

October 20, 2002