The incoming Anglican Bishop of Newcastle says the church is committed to a culture of change following the release of findings from the Royal Commission into child sexual abuse by clergy and lay people.
The report found the church hierarchy failed to show leadership and displayed a "do nothing" approach to paedophile priests, allowing perpetrators to get away with their crimes.
Bishop Peter Stuart addressed the media and apologised to the victims who suffered at the hands of paedophile priests.
"I want to speak directly to them - you were let down as children and you and your families were let down when you came forward to speak of your experience," he said.
Bishop Stuart said the church has instituted a professional standards system which includes senior police to ensure people indentified as perpetrators of abuse are disciplined.
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| Bishop Peter Stuart Addresses The Media Picture: theherald.com.au |
