I love theop-ed section of the paper. I believe we all need to write at least one letter on something we’re passionate about in our lifetime. In saying that, I applaud this reader

Re: “Confession exemption sought by Catholic lobby in child abuse bills” [Feb. 12, Northwest]:

In 38 years as a licensed psychologist who works with children and teens, I have made multiple reports to Child Protective Services and the police regarding suspected child abuse. Along with other psychologists, physicians, teachers, nurses, counselors and other professionals, I not only take seriously my legal duty to report these suspicions but also feel a moral and ethical obligation to act to protect the welfare of children. House Bill 1098 and Senate Bill 5280 correct a clear omission by adding clergy to the group of professionals who are mandatory reporters.

However, the Roman Catholic Church is advocating for an exception to these proposed laws, excusing priests from being required to report admissions of child abuse that occur in confessions. Their opposition represents yet another extension of the Catholic Church’s centuries-long institutional practices supporting child abuse. When will the Catholic Church finally begin to recognize children’s welfare as a primary priority instead of focusing on covering for their priests and other clergy and clinging to obsolete rituals that leave children in danger of experiencing physical and emotional trauma? When will their leaders take responsibility for preventing abuse rather than facilitating it?

Fredric Provenzano, Ph.D., NCSP, Seattle