Hundreds of parishioners from Monsan have signed an open letter to Bishop Viana do Castelo in which they challenge the “public crucifixion” of Father André Gonçalves, accused of sexually abusing a minor, by the diocese.
At that time, the diocese released a file pointing to the removal of the priest. “He has sinned and should be taken on and judged for the sin he committed, but he and his family should be respected,” the letter says.
“In the case of a relationship by mutual consent from the age of 14 in a civil order, this is not punishable,” the believers point out.
This Friday (Good Friday) the general prayer during the celebration should include the intention of the victims of sexual abuse in the church, as suggested by the Bishops’ Conference.
Author: Manuel Jorge Bento
Source: CM Jornal
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