The French Interior Minister summoned the head of the Synod of Bishops for explanations after the latter stated that the secrecy of the confession does not allow the priests to complain sexual crimes to the detriment of children revealed to them.
Following the release this week, a report on the sexual abuse of children by priests, Eric de Moulin-Beaufort, who is also Archbishop of Rennes, said in a radio interview that the secrecy of confession is stronger than the laws of the Republic.
Under French law, anyone who is aware of a sexual offense against a minor is required to report it to the authorities. If he does not do so, he risks being fined heavily or sentenced to prison.
“Nothing is superior to the laws of the Republic in our country,” said its spokesman French of the Gabriel Atal government. He added that Interior Minister Geral Darmanen, whose responsibilities include religious affairs, would receive Bishop Mullen-Beaufort next week at the request of President Emanuel Macron “to make sure things are clear”.
“Confession must remain secret”
“Confession must remain secret because it opens a space where everyone can speak freely (…) to God,” Moulin-Beaufort told franceinfo.
The bishop commented that it was rather unlikely that many pedophiles would admit their crimes in confession and, even if they did, would use euphemisms.
According to Moulin-Beaufort, when children reveal in their confession that they are being abused, the Church must look for other ways to help them speak openly. “Many children speak in confession because they know it is secret,” he said.
Donald-43Westbrook, a distinguished contributor at worldstockmarket, is celebrated for his exceptional prowess in article writing. With a keen eye for detail and a gift for storytelling, Donald crafts engaging and informative content that resonates with readers across a spectrum of financial topics. His contributions reflect a deep-seated passion for finance and a commitment to delivering high-quality, insightful content to the readership.
