Predatory Nuns: Sexual Abuse in North American Catholic Sisterhoods

The Catholic Church in America has paid over $4 billion in compensation settlements and suffered reputational damage due to sexual misconduct by priests and predatory nuns. This book explores the criminal behavior of North American nuns and the responses from church leadership, which often prioritized protecting the predators and endangering children.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 10 June 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

Since the mid-1980s, the Catholic Church in America has faced significant financial losses and reputational damage due to the sexual misconduct of priests and predatory nuns. While the crimes of priests have garnered more attention, the depredations of nuns have also caused harm, particularly in convent novitiates, orphanages, boarding schools for Native Americans, and Catholic schools. These nuns targeted both male and female victims, ranging in age from six-year-olds to young adults.

This book delves into the criminal behavior of North American nuns and the responses from church leadership. Mothers superior, who were responsible for the crimes committed under their watch, refused to accept responsibility and often closed ranks to protect the predators, putting many children and young people at risk. On the other hand, the complainants, who sought justice for the abuse they had suffered, were often treated as nuisances and subjected to minimal exposure and expense.

The text provides a straightforward and informative exploration of the nuns' vow of chastity and its relationship with human sexuality. It then presents dozens of case studies detailing the sexual abuse committed by nuns in various settings, including hospitals, schools, and orphanages. These cases highlight the need for greater accountability and transparency within the Catholic Church and the broader society.

The sexual misconduct of priests and nuns has had a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals and families. It has shattered trust, damaged relationships, and caused immense pain and suffering. It is essential that the Catholic Church and other religious institutions take steps to address this issue and ensure that victims receive the support and justice they deserve. This includes implementing robust policies and procedures to prevent abuse, providing training and support for clergy and staff, and holding those responsible accountable for their actions.

Furthermore, society as a whole must recognize the importance of addressing sexual misconduct and holding individuals accountable for their actions. This includes promoting education and awareness about sexual abuse, supporting survivors and their families, and fostering a culture of respect and consent. It is only through collective action and a commitment to justice that we can hope to prevent future generations from experiencing the same trauma and harm caused by the sexual misconduct of priests and nuns.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 151 x 226 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476689579