Opinion|Reader’s opinion
The solution to the problem is simple. Firstly, those working with children must be screened, and secondly, an open atmosphere must be created in which rumors are boldly investigated, grievances are addressed and victims are supported.
Jari Tervon column (HS 17.10.) was literally elusive in writing but sadly roughly simplistic without suggestions. After serving in the judiciary for several years, I have found pedophile sexual offenses to be a problem in our society as well. Pedophilia has occurred in all communities at all times. In ancient Greece, a term was even developed for the relationship between man and son (pederasty), and it was widely practiced in ancient times. Christianity spread by the Catholic Church was one factor in denying the custom.
Unfortunately, such activities have been able to nestle in some Catholic congregations: according to a report in France, there have been about 2,700 confirmed cases of priestly pedophilia in 70 years and an estimated more than 200,000. The truth is probably something in between.
However, one case is too much: the Church’s teaching on sexual ethics sharply prohibits such activities, and priests have a special position of power, responsibility, and trust in the churches. Such action must definitely be eradicated and the culprits must be held strictly accountable.
The claim that celibacy causes pedophilia should not be supported by psychological research. This claim is extremely offensive to the tens of thousands of priests who have sacrificed their own lives with their bodies and souls to serve the Church and their parishioners and lived exemplary according to their own choices and callings. Pedophilia, on the other hand, is a disturbed sexual orientation that develops in early adolescence. Stigmatizing the Catholic Church as coming from Satan is also extremely offensive to the millions of Catholics who compete every day to be better people and to practice charity.
The solution to the problem of pedophilia in the Catholic Church and wherever adults and children meet is simple. Firstly, people working with children must be closely screened (for example, priestly callings), and secondly, an open atmosphere must be created in which rumors are boldly investigated, grievances are ruthlessly addressed and victims are actively supported. This is a failure in the Catholic Church. Contrary to what Tervo claimed, Pope Francis has fortunately taken action on these, but much remains to be done. All Catholics have a responsibility.
Instead of blaming the whole group of people, we should all remember the Voltairian ideal of the Enlightenment of a society in which, in tolerance of different opinions and beliefs, we as a nation can fight together against injustices such as crimes against children. We must also offer help to people with pedophile tendencies. It is equally important to ensure that these people do not end up working with children.
Jesse Heikkilä
district judge, Helsinki
Reader opinions are speeches written by HS readers, selected and delivered by HS editorial. You can leave a comment or read the principles of the writing at www.hs.fi/kirjtamielipidekirjoitus/.
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