New Church scandal sparks hope for reform in Hungary
The leadership of the Hungarian Catholic Church has recently presented a divided picture in its handling of internal sex scandals and child protection cases. While some bishops have taken decisive steps to investigate such cases, some church statements still avoid clear apologies.
Bishop András Veres emphasised in a coldly worded statement that collective prayer and fasting were more important than empathy for the victims. At the same time, several bishops, such as Zsolt Marton and László Varga, have called for reform of the Church, with open apologies and an emphasis on the importance of prevention.
Details of a case in Balatonfüred
Recently, the case of a nun working at St Benedict High School in Balatonfüred exemplified the possibility of transparency and accountability in the Church. According to Válasz Online, the nun, who belonged to the monastic branch of the Community of the Eight Beatitudes, had worked at the institution for two years as a religious education teacher and child protection counsellor. Following the allegations against her, the Archabbey of Pannonhalma and the international leadership of the community took immediate action and launched an investigation.
Around two dozen witnesses, including minors, were interviewed during the investigation. The findings suggest that while the nun probably did not commit a direct sexual offence, her behaviour crossed the boundaries of acceptable conduct in several areas. Emotional dependency, abuse of authority, and rule-breaking with students created a toxic atmosphere. For example, the nun bought cigarettes and alcohol for students and had a particularly close relationship with one boy, with whom she shared a tattoo.
The procedure
The Benedictines and the Community of the Eight Beatitudes reacted with exemplary speed, bringing the matter to the ecclesiastical authorities in Rome and offering to cooperate with the secular justice system. Although the investigation is still ongoing, the nun has already been removed from her post, and her dismissal is being prepared.
The way this case was handled stands as an outstanding example of how the Church should support victims of abuse. The Archabbey of Pannonhalma and the leadership of the community have prioritised not only exposing the wrongdoing but also supporting the children involved. In his statement, Archpriest Cyril T. Hortobágyi stressed that sincere apologies and accountability are essential to restoring trust.
Broader implications
The case highlights the need for Church organisations to have both the legal and spiritual frameworks required to handle such situations effectively. Pope Francis’ reforms, which focus on prevention and zero tolerance, provide an example that should be consistently applied in practice. The story of Balatonfüred has the potential to encourage the Church to adopt these principles consistently when dealing with both past and future cases.
This case offers hope for change, not only to the victims of abuse but also to the faithful seeking a renewed Church. Transparency and accountability are not only moral obligations but also fundamental conditions for the Church’s long-term survival.
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