Scandals in the Church and Mental Health

Over the years, we have heard of many scandals within the Catholic Church, including our priests. Witnessing the evil of these events has resulted in some people leaving the Church, losing their faith, and cursing God.

Often it is priests at the center of these scandals.

It is truly discouraging and heartbreaking to learn that someone we looked up to as an example, viewed as a representation of Christ, and poured our hearts out to in confession was committing such heinous acts and acting so duplicitously. We let them into our homes and hearts as guides to Christ, healers of souls, and nurturers of faith only to find that they were a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

It is important that if we have been abused or suffered mistreatment at the hands of a priest (or any person) that we seek professional help. But for those of us who experience the scandal more indirectly, it is worth noting a few things.

The first is to remember that the church is not a place for perfect people. It is a hospital for souls that are in need of healing, and this includes priests. When taking into account the number of priests compared to the few who commit these acts, it is clear that the vast majority of our priests are good and holy men.

Also, and this does not excuse any evil, but every profession and vocation has within it a minority of people who commit these same evils. The Church is both human and divine (fortunately for us, so that we can be part of it!). We must also remember that it is unfair and imprudent to judge an entire category of people (like priests) based on a few individuals.

Finally, we draw hope from the fact that it is Christ who is present in the Eucharist. No matter who is consecrating it, He is still there- perfect, holy, and loving.

While our experiences with individual priests may leave us bitter, hurt, or traumatized, we cannot forget the privilege and importance of the gift Christ offers us through the sacraments. A gift that is offered to sinful humanity through sinful humanity! We can be grateful that God works through all of us, even when we fall short.

This week, consider spending some time reflecting on Hebrews 4:15-16. Also, please remember to pray for your priests!