Is It Time for Catholic Church to Reform?

Re “Catholics Angry, Saddened by O.C. Molestation Case,” Aug. 22:

As a mother and teacher, I applaud the settlement in favor of Ryan DiMaria. I am somewhat surprised by the reaction of some Catholics, as this case brings the not-so-secret problems of the Roman Catholic Church to the surface not only to be seen but, ideally, also to be resolved.

Maybe I’m an optimist, but instead of seeing the DiMaria settlement as something to “erode morale,” it should be seen as a steppingstone to real reform. Sexual abuse of minors has been going on in the church for decades--more likely for centuries. It is institutionalized, and its abusers are protected by the hierarchy. It is now time for society, Catholics included, to get their heads out of the sand and protect children from this abuse, this ultimate betrayal--abuse by an authority figure representing God.

There are sexual abuse allegations against teachers and coaches as well as priests. We all must deal with the “chilling effect” these charges have on our professions. However, if we really care about our children and students, we will applaud every effort to rid our professions of people who take advantage and abuse trusting children.

It is time for the Catholic Church to reform. Society will respect it more for helping abused children instead of hiding and reassigning the abusers--only to abuse again.

Carol Balile

Newport Beach

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I am tired of the Catholic-bashing being dished out daily as I try to enjoy my morning coffee. In the effort to please others, perhaps the Catholic Church should shut its doors and perform a public Mass at which all priests would be required to marry.

The Catholic Church is one of the largest religious and charity groups in the world. Within any large group (religious, ethnic, professional or athletic) there will be a small percentage of deviant people. These individuals need to be prosecuted and held accountable.

It is a crime to assume that because of these sick few, thousands of honorable, hard-working and respected priests should also feel persecuted.

We live in a state where we are blessed with rich ethnic, cultural and religious diversity. Now, more than ever, it is unacceptable to question the integrity of an entire religion, race, or profession because of the atrocities of single individuals.

To all the “Archie Bunkers” out there, here are a few suggestions to guide you through life:

Don’t bother tuning in to “Monday Night Football”; after O.J. Simpson we all know what kind of people they are.

And do not visit a physician under any circumstances; as a result of Jack Kervorkian’s actions, patients should never trust that they will return home.

Julie Hudash

Irvine