National News
Bishops discuss hotline devoted to collecting complaints against them
The "third-party system" that would collect complaints specifically involving bishops was already approved by the bishops' Administrative Committee during its meeting on Sept. 19.
Standards of bishops’ accountability unveiled at USCCB meeting
A series of standards of episcopal accountability for bishops was formally unveiled Nov. 13 at the fall general meeting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in Baltimore. The standards will not be voted on during the bishops' meeting.
Bishops’ abuse response must trump all other issues, advisory group says
UPDATED - The response to this crisis needs to be more than issuing statements of regret and even establishing new mechanisms and procedures,.
National Review Board expects to push bishops on abuse accountability
Members of the National Review Board see their work as one way to continue challenging the U.S. bishops "not to back down" from efforts to improve accountability in responding to clergy sexual abuse.
Bishops overwhelmingly approve letter against racism
The pastoral letter "Open Wide Our Hearts: The Enduring Call to Love" says racism "still infects our nation." It addresses racism against African Americans, Native Americans and Hispanics.
Blindsided: Rome steps in, reform votes delayed
ANALYSIS - A last-minute request from the Vatican to delay action on proposed bishop accountability protocols stunned clerics, staff and journalists at the USCCB general assembly on Nov. 12.
Review board chair fears for church future if more action not taken on abuse
Francesco Cesareo, who heads the USCCB's national advisory committee on child and youth protection, called for greater accountability from bishops, and also urged them to publish complete lists of credibly accused clergy.
Minnesota bishop calls for ‘the strength to come clean’ on abuse
At the opening Mass for the USCCB assembly, Archbishop Bernard Hebda of St. Paul and Minneapolis reflected on the need for bishops to put their flocks first, rather than "save their own hides."
Vote on proposed abuse protocols put on hold as bishops begin meeting
What is not going to be voted on by the U.S. bishops at their fall general meeting in Baltimore is likely to overshadow what is being discussed as they engage in three days of public sessions.
Catholic women urge bishops to work together and with laity for healing
"The eyes of every victim of abuse in the church. and indeed, the whole world will now observe," how you respond, said Sister Teresa Maya.