Some of you have been asking me to comment on Ed Peters' reflection on Fr. Maciel's penance. As usual, I agree with Ed on some things but disagree with him on others. That being said, my perspective is going to be coloured.
Although I was never formally involved in the case, some of Fr. Maciel's more recent accusers approached me a few years ago for canonical advice. I heard their stories and I offered what canonical advice I could at the time.
I won't deny this experience shook my faith in the Church. I thank God for His sustaining grace during this time.
Yet there's an old expression in canon law that the petitioner's case seems overwhelming until the respondent opens his mouth. I never spoke to Fr. Maciel for his side of the story. Nor was I appointed to adjudicate this case.
Therefore, I don't feel that it would be appropriate to engage Ed in a public debate. I would, however, ask everyone to please keep both Fr. Maciel and his alleged victims, whose stories I found believable, in prayer.
I have a great deal of respect for both Ed and you. I have always thought your counterpoints when you responded to some things he has written are more co-operative that "adversarial". Both of you seek the truth in what I find to be a fascinating part of the Church. Wish that were more prevalent throughout the Body of Christ.