Fr Aris on Clergy Sexual Sin
In light of the interest that the Eli’s Road post is getting, I really should point out that Fr Aris Metrakos made many similar points over two years ago.
And all sexual misconduct deserves the maximum penalty. When persons on the bench, in the bar, or with a badge undermine the legal system they get locked up for a long time; they are held to a higher standard. Priests who are pedophiles, homosexual predators, and adulterers need to be defrocked — not only to send a message but to protect the Church and her members. Some of them need jail time too.
I even managed, quite inadvertently, to pick up his closing statement: “Sexual sin among the clergy must stop.”
The only point at which I would disagree with Fr Aris is on the second chance for adulterers. I think even one time should lead to defrocking.
However, Fr Aris deserves praise for speaking out very clearly concerning this issue. Now to get everyone else speaking and, more importantly, acting just as firmly.
Fr. John A. Peck:
December 2nd, 2009 at 9:50 am
We can always follow the Scriptures in looking for advice:
“Those who sin are to be rebuked publicly, so that the others may see and fear.” 1 Timothy 5:20
I’m surprised that future clergy are not required to take a “this is what you can expect” class outlining standard responses to various moral failures.
It would, of course, be applied as all Orthodox rules – with strictness or economia.