The reflections on justice from the Survivors’ Voices panel last week were powerful. I’m honored to be able to bring you a few more today: I gave up on institutional justice for my abuser years ago, either retributive or restorative. The courts didn't throw him in jail; canon lawyers didn't sanction him. Some church leaders took action; some said his contributions were more important than any part of me. Still others claim to stand for victims, and yet ignored my cries to keep the People of God safe from his abuse. I was ostracized and mocked and cast out of beloved communities when I came forward as a victim. There has been very little accountability. There has no reparation. What could justice possibly mean, if no one with power will work to accomplish it on my behalf? My belief in divine justice is not a want but a need, because otherwise I could not fathom a way forward in this religion. Come, Lord Jesus.
Survivors' Voices: Justice, Part 2
Survivors' Voices: Justice, Part 2
Survivors' Voices: Justice, Part 2
The reflections on justice from the Survivors’ Voices panel last week were powerful. I’m honored to be able to bring you a few more today: I gave up on institutional justice for my abuser years ago, either retributive or restorative. The courts didn't throw him in jail; canon lawyers didn't sanction him. Some church leaders took action; some said his contributions were more important than any part of me. Still others claim to stand for victims, and yet ignored my cries to keep the People of God safe from his abuse. I was ostracized and mocked and cast out of beloved communities when I came forward as a victim. There has been very little accountability. There has no reparation. What could justice possibly mean, if no one with power will work to accomplish it on my behalf? My belief in divine justice is not a want but a need, because otherwise I could not fathom a way forward in this religion. Come, Lord Jesus.