Which statement to make

We've all heard (and maybe even said) the familiar words: "I'm not giving a nickel to the Church until this is straightened out." It's a natural and understandable response in difficult times, but we hope those Catholics who are so inclined will consider some important factors before they make their final decision.

First, the Albany Diocese has not been involved in the scandals. As reported in our pages weeks ago, there have been very few instances of sexual abuse by clergy here: nine in the past quarter-century. The most recent cases have been handled through the Diocese's nearly ten-year-old abuse policy (reprinted in The Evangelist on Feb. 28). That policy allows for investigation of the accusation, treatment for the victim and cooperation with civil authorities. When the scandals arose elsewhere several weeks ago, the Diocese quickly summoned a panel of independent experts in law and psychology to review the policy and recommend any necessary changes.

Second, withholding money doesn't punish the Church so much as the people the Church serves, and that includes thousands of children. For example, the Bishop's Appeal funds Catholic schools and religious education classes, counseling and camping programs, Scouting efforts and Christian leadership training, and other efforts that help young people grow in their faith. People whose hearts go out to the children who have been victims of abuse can help all kids by contributing to the Appeal. It would be sadly ironic if a financial protest resulted in fewer children being taught about their religion, led in prayer or guided in living their faith.

Finally, rather than refusing to give at all, perhaps we should increase our donations to the Bishop's Appeal. Surveys have shown that Catholics, while justifiably disturbed about the scandals, have not been shaken in their essential faith. A concrete measurement of that loyalty and steadfastness would be increases in gifts to the Appeal. It would be a way for all of us to say: "I stand behind my Church, Diocese and Bishop because they are doing so many good things: educating children, training ministers, feeding the hungry, helping unwed mothers, visiting the ill and serving the elderly. Amid all the bad news, I want to be a part of the good news and ensure that it continues."

Anger, disappointment, embarrassment and sorrow have naturally followed on the revelations of the abuse scandals. Some Catholics want to vote with their feet by leaving the Church, but that hurts them as well as the Church, which needs their presence and input. Other Catholics want to vote with their donations, but doing so, in the end, will hurt those who look to the Church and its members for comfort, solace, support and guidance. Through the Bishop's Appeal, we can turn our negative emotions into positive assistance. That's the statement we should be making through our generous gifts.

(04-18-02)