The Gilbert Gauthe case was history-making. Prior to his conviction, similar situations involving pedophile priests or ministers were handled discreetly by religious officials throughout the nation. But the publicity generated here in the Abbeville area exposed former taboos to the harsh light of criticism and forced the church bureaucracy towards problem-solving reality.
When rumors of Father Gauthe's criminal misconduct became prevalent in 1984, investigations revealed that church leaders had been aware of his sexual deviance for ten years. Yet Gauthe had not been asked to leave the priesthood, but merely reassigned to another small rural church community. Shock, anger, betrayal, shame and disillusionment were some of the emotions shared by many Catholics in the affected communities.
Facing criminal trial, Gauthe was allowed a plea bargain on multiple charges of child pornography and sexual abuse of minors. His confession did lead to a prison sentence; however, the legal agreement prevented future prosecution for other pre-1985 incidents.
Some local families took unprecedented civil action and eventually obtained a financial settlement from the Catholic diocese. It was a mixed victory because money cannot heal the emotional and spiritual scars borne by the victims. With the remarkable strength of courage and resiliency which is typical of Cajuns, many of these young people have grown into adulthood undaunted by the past. Some have returned to the practice of their traditional faith, while others have sought non-Catholic solace.
Gilbert Gauthe served only half of his 20-year prison term. In sad irony, the notorious ex-priest was convicted for molesting a 3-year-old boy in Texas soon after his premature release. It is hoped that medical intervention may provide needed help in dealing with such a social menace.
It is very important to note that the vast majority of priests are good, caring, and responsible men. Also, the problem of sexual abuse by youth counselors is not a new phenomenon nor is it limited to Catholic clergy anomalies. Now that so much "dirty linen" is out, however, religious and secular leaders cannot stand idly by and wait for the uproar to subside. Some very difficult decisions and constructive steps will be necessary to restore public confidence and validate private faith. A few sincere prayers couldn't hurt in the process!
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