Vatican Panel Says Church Is Still Too Slow in Addressing Sexual Abuse

A recent report by a Vatican commission has expressed concern that the Catholic Church is still not doing enough to address the issue of sexual abuse within its ranks, despite efforts by Pope Francis to tackle the problem. The panel's findings highlight the significant challenges the Pope faces in his bid to eradicate clerical abuse and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.According to the report, the Church's response to allegations of abuse remains inconsistent and often inadequate, with many cases still not being reported or properly investigated. The commission, which was set up by Pope Francis to advise him on matters related to clergy abuse, noted that there is a need for greater transparency and accountability within the Church.The report also pointed out that the Church's procedures for handling abuse cases are often slow and cumbersome, allowing perpetrators to continue serving in positions of authority for too long. This can lead to further opportunities for abuse to occur, and can also undermine trust in the Church's ability to protect its followers.Pope Francis has faced intense scrutiny over his handling of abuse cases, particularly in the wake of several high-profile scandals. The Pope has acknowledged that the Church has made mistakes in its response to abuse, and has promised to take a tougher stance on perpetrators. However, critics argue that more needs to be done to address the root causes of abuse and to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.The Vatican commission's report is likely to add to the pressure on Pope Francis to take more decisive action on the issue. The Pope has already announced a number of measures aimed at tackling abuse, including the creation of a new tribunal to handle cases of clergy abuse. However, many are calling for more fundamental reforms to the Church's approach to abuse, including greater transparency and accountability.Ultimately, the report's findings serve as a reminder that the Catholic Church still has a long way to go in its efforts to address the scourge of sexual abuse. While Pope Francis has made some progress in tackling the issue, it is clear that more needs to be done to ensure that the Church is a safe and welcoming place for all its followers.