Final report on sexual abuse: Diocese of Fulda in focus!

Final report on sexual abuse: Diocese of Fulda in focus!

Today the Diocese of Fulda is taking a look into the past and shedding light on a shadowy chapter in its history. The final report of the independent commission to deal with sexual violence is presented in the Bonifatiushaus, a significant step towards transparency and responsibility. The commission was formed in September 2021 to investigate cases of sexual violence in the Catholic Church from 1945 to the present day. The formal handover of the report to Bishop Dr. Michael Gerber marks a turning point in dealing with these serious allegations, which should no longer remain in the dark. Osthessen-News reports about the details.

Gerhard Möller, former mayor of Fulda and current chairman of the commission, emphasized the independent working methods of the committee. The commission has examined personnel files since 1946 and collected comprehensive figures that are processed in the report. Important attention was also paid to dealing with those affected and accused as well as the structures that could facilitate sexual abuse. As DOMRADIO reports, it is expected that breaches of duty by previous bishops, not least by Archbishop Johannes Dyba, will also be discussed.

The Commission and its tasks

A diverse team of experts, including lawyers, social educators and medical specialists, is working to clear up the cases of abuse. The report already lists 57 suspects by the end of 2023, including both confirmed perpetrators and suspected suspects. After carefully analyzing the report, the spokesman for the commission, Gerhard Möller, wants to seek dialogue with the public and announce a detailed statement from the diocese leadership before the summer break, as already mentioned. The diocese of Fulda, which covers an area of ​​over 10,318 square kilometers and has around 327,000 Catholics, has addressed this important issue with a clear intention.

But the topic is not only being dealt with in the diocese of Fulda - similar commissions are now active in all Catholic dioceses in Germany. These initiatives emerged from an agreement between the bishops in 2020. The general tenor is that more precise and independent investigations into cases of sexual violence in churches are necessary. The Independent Commission for the Comprehension of Child Sexual Abuse has repeatedly pointed out grievances and cover-ups in recent years. Those affected report sexual violence in communities, homes, boarding schools and schools, and the existing power structures and the inadequate treatment of sexuality in seminaries were cited as the causes of these crimes.

An even longer road

The report presented today is therefore not only a review of events, but also a first step towards creating a new, responsible culture within the Catholic Church. The voices of those affected, who have been ignored for years, must be heard and respected. The planned statement from the diocese leadership and a finally transparent approach are intended to create awareness that it is time to take a look and act. The Commission's words and future actions are more than just a commitment to enlightenment - they are the start of a process that is urgently needed.

In the coming weeks, particular attention will be paid to how Bishop Gerber and the diocese leadership take on this challenge and what conclusions they will draw from the findings of the report. Today could be the beginning of a shift within the church towards more openness and responsibility.