For adult victims of sexual misconduct in the church, canon law is finally catching up

 

For adult victims of sexual misconduct in the church, canon law is finally catching up

SAINT PAUL (MN)
National Catholic Reporter [Kansas City MO]

March 25, 2026

By Susan Mulheron

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As a canonist, I am often asked what changes are needed in canon law to address sexual abuse in the church. My usual response is that this is asking the wrong question, or, to paraphrase the famous aphorism, “Culture eats canon law for breakfast.” The real question is: How can we work to affect changes in the culture of the church, which will ideally be codified in the church’s law as standard expectations and practice?

For adult victims of sexual misconduct in the church, canon law is finally catching up to a culture that no longer tolerates sexual harassment or its cover-up. Helping all Catholics understand this shift in culture, and the changes in canon law, will ensure a safer environment for everyone.