Child Sexual Abuse and the Churches

Stories of child sexual abuse continue to appear, including those that focus on abuse within the Church. The author maintains that all churches - Protestant and Catholic alike - have yet to face this issue.;Drawing on recent research and the stories of victims, he explores why abuse occurs; the effects on victims; the issues arising when child abuse is suspected in a church setting; and why he believes the Church hasn't dealt satisfactorily with the problem in the past. He discusses how the problem can be dealt with both pastorally and legally in order to provide a safe environment for children in the future.