Commitment to the Seal of Confession

Bishop Thomas Daly of Spokane, Washington, has expressed a strong commitment to maintaining the seal of confession, indicating that priests are prepared to face jail rather than violate this fundamental aspect of their ministry. This declaration came in response to the recent enactment of Senate Bill 5375.

Overview of Senate Bill 5375

On May 2, 2023, Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson signed into law Senate Bill 5375, which mandates that clergy from all denominations serve as mandatory reporters of child abuse and neglect.

Daly’s Assurance to the Diocese

“I want to assure you that your shepherds, bishop and priests, are committed to keeping the seal of confession – even to the point of going to jail,” stated Bishop Daly in a message to his diocese.

The diocese represents the eastern region of Washington State. Daly affirmed the sacred nature of the Sacrament of Penance, stating, “The Sacrament of Penance is sacred and will remain that way in the Diocese of Spokane.”

Child Protection Measures in the Diocese

Bishop Daly defended the protocols in place for child protection within the diocese. He called upon those in the community to speak with vigilant parents and volunteers involved in parish activities to understand their unwavering commitment to child safety.

According to Daly, the Diocese of Spokane operates an Office of Child and Youth Protection staffed by professionals dedicated to maintaining a zero-tolerance policy regarding sexual abuse.

Legislative Rationale and Perspectives

Governor Ferguson remarked during the bill signing that Washington was one of the few states lacking clergy reporting requirements. “Protecting our kids, first, is the most important thing. This bill protects Washingtonians from abuse and harm,” he emphasized.

Senator Noel Frame, a primary sponsor of the bill, noted the decision to exclude the seal of confession from exemptions was intentional. She stated, “You never put somebody’s conscience above the protection of a child.” Frame’s personal experiences as a survivor of childhood abuse fueled her advocacy for this legislation.

Ferguson, a practicing Catholic, reassured that he personally viewed the requirement for clergy to report abuse as essential for safeguarding children.

The Nature of the Seal of Confession

The seal of confession is a crucial tenet of the Catholic faith, preventing priests from disclosing anything shared during the sacrament. The church has firmly established this aspect as inviolable, as highlighted by the Fourth Lateran Council in 1215, which declared severe consequences for any priest who reveals confessional disclosures.

Conclusion

Bishop Daly’s assertive stance highlights the tension between religious duties and state mandates, particularly concerning child protection laws. As discussions continue, the Diocese of Spokane maintains its protocols, ensuring both adherence to faith and a commitment to the safety of children in its care.