Between the Pillory Treatment and Reliable Clarification: On the Role of the Media in Response to the Sexual Abuse Crisis in the Catholic Church in Poland

Abstract

The author presents the contribution of media in the response to the sexual abuse crisis in the Catholic Church in Poland. Media in Poland plays an important role in the detection of sexual abuse of minors by clergymen. Journalistic publications contributed to recognizing the criminal acts and to a change of strategy in which the protection of children and the prevention of crime, rather than the interests of institutions, are prioritized. However, the manner and frequency of presentation by media in relation to abuse within the Church also reflected what I have referred to as a pilloried treatment. The author presents both kinds of contribution of media in the response to the sexual abuse crisis in the Catholic Church in Poland. The paper reflects on challenges for the theological reflection, especially significance of an effective communication of the Catholic Church in the crisis. Finally, the article speaks about media responsibility in the transmission of news about sexual abuse crisis.