Dallas bishop asks pope to address sex abuse crisis

 The bishop of the Dallas Catholic Diocese is asking the pope to hold a special meeting to address the sexual abuse crisis.

In a letter to Pope Francis, Bishop Edward Burns is asking the church leaders to come together to address the sexual abuse and cover-up.

He also specifically mentioned the victims in Dallas. A priest in Oak Cliff is accused of sexually assaulting or abusing three teenagers a decade ago.

In the letter, Bishop Burns said he’s working with the victims who are wounded and doubtful about the credibility of church leadership.

A grand jury report revealed decades of abuse by hundreds of priests in Pennsylvania. Now the bishop is asking the pope for an urgent meeting to make a real change and restore trust in the church.

“We would envision addressing the safeguard of children and the vulnerable, outreach to victims, the identity and lifestyle of clergy, the importance of human formation in the religious community. At the same time to address abuse of power, clericalism, accountability and the understanding of transparency in the church,” Bishop Burns said.

He sent the letter to the Vatican Embassy in Washington D.C. He does not know when he will receive a response from the pope.

The letter was filled with signatures on the back page. It was unanimously approved and signed by two bishops and 21 priests.