In a powerful sermon at St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral, Archbishop of Dublin Dermot Farrell emphasized that there can be no reform or renewal of the Catholic Church in Ireland until the issue of child sexual abuse is fully addressed. Referring to the scoping inquiry’s findings of 2,395 allegations of abuse in 308 schools, Archbishop Farrell highlighted the culture of denial within the Church towards this heinous crime.
He called for a recognition of the dynamics of denial and urged for action to address these grave allegations. The government’s plan to establish a commission of inquiry was welcomed by Archbishop Farrell as a step towards justice for the victims.
Reflecting on the widespread abuse that has tarnished the Catholic education system, Archbishop Farrell acknowledged the need for the Church to confront this dark chapter in its history. He stressed that without addressing the abuse crisis, there can be no true renewal or reform within the Church.