Scottish Catholic Observer

The Apostolic Visitation by the Vatican into the clergy abuse crisis in Ireland has been postponed until at least the end of November. However, no final date has yet been set for the investigation by senior prelates, which was ordered by the Holy See in March. The Vatican has indicated that it will make an announcement about the visitation soon.

Two cardinals and three archbishops from England, America and Canada will be investigating the Irish archdioceses and seminaries. Earlier this month, the four most senior Irish prelates met the international delegation to finalise the format of the visitation and the nature of their investigation.

The Vatican has said the visitors ‘will give particular attention to victims of abuse and their families, but will also meet with and listen to a variety of people, including ecclesiastical authorities, lay faithful and those involved with the crucial work of safeguarding children.’

Pope Benedict XVI has invited the Irish Catholic community to support his initiative with their prayers. He hopes the visitation may be for the faithful ‘an occasion of renewed fervor in the Christian life, and that it may deepen their faith and strengthen their hope in Christ our Saviour.’