Dear Editor: The sex abuse scandal constituted a heinous crime and putting such behind us demands that the following conditions be met: The Church must admit guilt, show deep metanoia for these deeds and put in place processes to check their re-occurrence.

Since this scandal became viral in 2002, the Church has publicly denounced this evil; encouraged and participated in independent commissions to probe allegations; promulgated zero tolerance policies for offenders; paid compensations; etc.

The Catholic Church has done more than any other institution to stem the occurrence of these scandals. Because the trauma experienced by victims cannot be healed instantly, the Church continually explores avenues to help them and should not relent in this effort. However, I am very proud as a Catholic for the Church’s handling of the post-scandal era. This scandal is not my identity!

In the Tablet (June 4), Bishop DiMarzio and Deacon Franco lamented the current witch-hunt bill in Albany whereby secular liberals and politicians seek extension of statutes of limitations to make private institutions alone, vicariously liable for up to 60 yrs. As Bishop DiMarzio wrote, such law is unjust. It spares their sacred cows and makes the Church a sacrificial victim. It showcases how detractors seek to denigrate the Church and cripple her resources.

While we remain vigilant, we can topple this unjust Albany bill by resorting to our weapons of spiritual warfare (2 Cor 10: 4-5). God will lead us in this battle.

VICTOR ENEMUO

Jamaica