by Joshua J. McElwee
Before formally resigning from his post at the end of February, Pope Benedict should use the power of his office to take "tangible action" to safeguard children from sexually abusive priests, states the largest U.S. group for clergy sex abuse survivors.
"No matter how tired or weak Pope Benedict may be, he still has two weeks to use his vast power to protect youngsters," the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests said in a statement this morning.
"Before he steps down, we hope he will show true leadership and compassion and take tangible action to safeguard vulnerable children. Imagine the shock waves – and the hope – that would be generated if, in his waning days, the pontiff demoted, disciplined, or defrocked even a handful of bishops who are concealing child sex crimes. And imagine the deterrent that would be to present and future cover ups."