A reader writes

I felt compelled to share this. For a while, I was a member of Regnum Christi. The families and group I knew were devout Catholics. I had recently returned to the Church after a very long absence, and I did so with great enthusiasm and fervor. Then this information began to surface. I left RC quickly when I heard the mere hint of this kind of evil. You see, the reason I left the church to begin with was sexual abuse – and I was the victim. So here I return and find the joy of that experience tainted by this miserable insanity. Depression and withdrawal from the Church was the result. It took me a while to work my way through it – thanks to the advice and help of a holy priest who happened to be a friend.

Thanks for writing. I’m sorry your joy at returning was dimmed by the actions of the despicable Fr. Maciel and those who despicably lied on his behalf. On the other hand, how wonderful that, despite his best efforts to destroy your faith and joy, the devil has not succeeded in doing so. Keep your eyes on Jesus Christ and not on the sins of which we are all guilty and you will win through to peace and even mercy for wretches like Maciel. Christ promises the conquest of sin. He doesn’t promise that there will be no sin to conquer, nor that all the sins we have to conquer are our own. Forgiveness of the sins of others can be just about the most difficult thing a Christian is called to do. Bravo that you are striving to do that–especially when the betrayal is so very black and evil. May God continue to bless your walk with Christ!