A Unique Betrayal: Clergy Sexual Abuse in the Context of the Catholic Religious Tradition

The sexual abuse of children and adolescents by Roman Catholic priests entails a violation of meaning as well as persons. Precisely because the priest is regarded by Catholics as an "alter Christus," another Christ, his violation of a child's or adolescent's body is also a violation of a sacred trust and worldview. The implications of this violation of meaning are significant for victims of clergy abuse, and are important for therapists to understand. In this sense, healing the mind may also require healing the soul.