Voice of the Faithful’s letter to National Review Board Chair Nicholas Cafardi

December 12, 2004

Nicholas P. Cafardi, Chairman
National Review Board
As Assembled in Chicago, IL

Dear Chairman Cafardi and members of the National Review Board:

On behalf of the national membership of Voice of the Faithful, we wish you well as you assemble in a working session with your new members.

In the matter of the bishops of the United States changing to a self reporting system in 2005 for auditing of sexual abuse cases by clergy, we request that you forthrightly ask the bishops to rescind this action.

We know from the John Jay Report that in 50 years of self auditing every year was a failure. We know that the bishops failed in what should have been their highest priority, the protection of the innocent and the vulnerable.

Trust is on the line. If the bishops do not work to restore it, the Church will remain in jeopardy in the United States. You are in the front lines of holding them accountable. It is a solemn obligation.

This season of Advent holds all of the longing of the Old Testament for redemption. We firmly hope that you will have Joseph’s faith and Mary’s willing heart as you consider actions that should seek to protect every child as though each one were the Christ Child.

Sincerely,

James E. Post, President
Boston, MA

Kristine Ward, Vice President
Dayton, OH