The impact of the Church sexual abuse crisis: pastor perceptions and responses

Abstract The clergy sexual abuse crisis in the Catholic Church has been well documented in media, but there has been little research examining the impact on Catholic parishes and schools. This study explored how United States Catholic pastors perceive the crisis has impacted their parishes and schools and how they have subsequently addressed the crisis within their communities. Survey results from 295 pastors and focus groups with 10 pastors revealed that nearly all have addressed the crisis in some way within their parishes and schools, with the most frequent responses being revisions to safe environment policies, direct communication with families, and increased ministry of presence. Pastors have focused on safety, healing, and ministering in hope. Implications for pastors and their communities include the need for more resources and a trauma-informed approach.