Re: “DOJ opens inquiry into new WA law requiring clergy to report abuse” (May 5, Law & Justice):
I applaud Senate Bill 5375, signed by Gov. Bob Ferguson into law May 2, that makes clergy mandatory reporters of suspected child abuse or neglect to the authorities, even if it is a matter heard by a priest in confession. Priests now join a whole host of professionals — like medical personnel and school personnel — who are charged with the welfare of our children.
Child abuse and neglect are heinous and cruel. People who appeal to the divine, and seek God’s forgiveness by confessing such crimes in the confessional, should not be absolved from receiving earthly justice.
John R. Scannell, Sammamish