ABUSES IN PARISHES: The case of a Peruvian parish in a suburban poor area

Lecaros V. · Abuse in the Latin American Church: An Evolving Crisis at the Core of Catholicism (2024) · DOI: 10.4324/9781003401513-20

Resumen

This chapter presents a focused case analysis that delves into a crucial issue: victims who have suffered abuse at the hands of priests within urban marginalized parishes. This subject, which pertains to individuals living on the outskirts of cities, has been insufficiently explored due to the heightened vulnerability and prevalent distrust within these communities. Taking advantage of the great prestige priests enjoy in those areas, perpetrators may abuse of children and buy silence at a minimal cost. Through qualitative research, this study examines the personal journeys of two victims and a handful of witnesses. Despite the traumatic impact on their spiritual paths, these individuals, following a profound crisis, managed to renew their faith, partially aided by Evangelical churches. To counteract the prevailing impunity, we advocate for an unequivocal strict and transparent answer from the Church authorities.

Instituciones: Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú