Today the website of the Holy See published a guide (in English: www.vatican.va) for a better understanding of the basic procedures of the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith about the sexual abuse allegations. The guide refers to a Pope’s 2001 Motu proprio and the 1983 Code of Canon Law, in the attempt to be "helpful to lay persons and non-canonists". The guide illustrates the preliminary procedures adopted by the local diocese in the event of an allegation of a sexual abuse by a cleric against a child. "If the allegation has a semblance of truth, the case is referred to the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith", reads the document, which points out that “civil law concerning reporting of crimes to the appropriate authorities should always be followed". In addition, "during the preliminary stage and until the case is concluded, the bishop may impose precautionary measures to safeguard the community, including the victims. Indeed, the local bishop always retains power to protect children by restricting the activities of any priest in his diocese. “. (continued)
