text: Col,
  This is, of course, a big piece of the problem.  I'd add to your concern, the thought that HAD there been a better response from the beginning, the scandal likely would never have gotten as far as it has, and continue on...
  
  I know a lot of priests feel powerless, angry, hurt.  Their bosses know this, which just feeds even more that sense of protectionism towards the priests, while just adding more bricks to the walls to keep the laity at bay.
  
  I so long for the bishop or pope who has the guts to emulate the Jesus who cleaned out the temple,  in a properly righteous anger.  But for that to happen, one must have the courage to believe that he can live with the consequences.   That not a single bishop has done this is beyond shocking to me.  Such a man would likely be swept to the papacy by a laity who longs for justice, compassion and love.  How often have we invested in hopes?  Where is the O'Malley, the Francis, the Cupich who can actually follow through?  The absence hurts...