Sacrilege: Sexual Abuse in the Catholic Church

by Leon J. Podles

Sacrilege explores the deep roots of the Catholic Church's sexual-abuse scandal, revealing its full depth and breadth. In horrifying yet necessary detail, former federal investigator Leon Podles surveys the full extent of the damage, showing how victims were failed by bishops, laity, therapists, police, courts, press, and even popes. Examining the history behind today's headlines, Dr. Podles reveals how centuries-old theological errors encouraged blind submission to hierarchy, by making obedience to authority the highest virtue. He also shines a light on the new theological errors, popularized since Vatican II, that glorify every type of sexual expression--including pedophilia. Sacrilege will prove an essential resource for all those concerned with the history and future of Catholicism.

Genres: Nonfiction, True Crime

675 pages, Hardcover

First published November 15, 2007

Reviews

[Ashley]

#
NC
Own in paperback.

FS: "Under the pontificate of John Paul II, the almost one billion members of the Roman Catholic Church faced challenges from the outside: the materialism and secularism of the West eroded faith and practice and led to a decline in the numbers of priests and even in the numbers of laity in most developed countries."

LS: "The bishops of the world have not yet followed Benedict's lead, but he has given them an example to imitate."

[Glen Asbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t give this book 5 stars because it was an easy read. It was so difficult that I had to put it down for a while and read something else. But the documented evidence and the starkly horrific nature of what is shared here makes this a must-read for devout Catholics, which is what I strive to be.

[Pete · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excoriating and excruciating--pulls no punches, but a necessary look into the heart of evil. Also has a very nuanced examination of the theological errors that helped lay the grounds for the abuse.

[Cecilia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Don't be scandalized or suspicious. I read this book as research on the topic of "clericalism" for a group presentation in November. I am ashamed that when I was conscious of the issue in fifteen years ago, I did not spend much time listening to the victim's stories. It wasn't due to a lack of interest or empathy but helplessness. What could I do? Now that the issue is back (with some vengeance I suspect) I have devoted some time to listening to survivor stories, in person and through the articles, documentaries, movies and books. This is a very comprehensive accounting of the horrors, the reasons, and the potential hope for the Church's true repentance, restitution, and growth.
Although most days I can't say that I believe there is any light at the end of this tunnel. If you are the vigilante type - I would suggest you stay away from this book.

[Sahara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely read. I despise all religious institutions that "need" insane wealth to cover their fat asses






yes they need 170 billion dollars in the Americas alone...also they need "in house secretaries" to release tension!!!


also dont molest kids and certaintly dont pay these molesting priests to go on vacation

[Melanie Carver · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very detailed and descriptive account of the abuse that has happened in the Catholic church. It is extremely hard to read, but it is essential reading if we are going to make sure this does not continue. Be forewarned - this book is shocking in

[Seth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Horrifying. Simply horrifying.