Cardinal Pell accused of 'historic sex offenses' looks forward to clearing name

Two men have accused Cardinal Pell of offenses.

Australian Police have charged Cardinal George Pell with 'historic sex offenses.' Cardinal Pell is the highest-ranking member of the Church in Australia. He said he is looking forward to clearing his name. Pope Francis has been kept informed and supports Pell and the pursuit of justice.

LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) -- Australian police have accused Cardinal George Pell of committing 'historic sex offenses.' No other details have been provided. Australian lawyer, Ingrid Irwin said she represents two men making allegations against the Cardinal, and says they are "over the moon" about the charges. She praised their courage in coming forward.

The lack of details makes it difficult to comment on the case. Cardinal Pell has been forthright with Pope Francis and has discussed the allegations with him. He has spent the last two years working at the Vatican for Pope Francis. He has also cooperated with the investigation, meeting with investigators and taking their questions. Cardinal Pell appears anxious to resolve the case.

The Catholic Church has been rocked by scandal for decades as victims of priestly abuse have come forward around the globe. Historically, respect for the Church, for priests, and a Church culture that sheltered pedophiles made it difficult for victims to bring their cases to authorities. However, a series of high profile cases and changing attitudes have made it easier for victims to seek justice. The Church is refusing to shelter priests from allegations, instead compelling them to face justice in criminal courts.

In most cases, the accused are guilty. It is difficult to accuse someone of such a crime. It is even more difficult when the perpetrator is popular and well respected.

However, each person deserves justice and their day in court. Not all who are accused are guilty. Some people lie about being victims, often seeking revenge or financial compensation. But these cases are rare.

All are encouraged to pray for a just outcome in the pending case. May all parties find justice and healing.

STATEMENT FROM CARDINAL PELL

I want to say one or two brief words about my situation.

These matters have been under investigation now for two years. There have been leaks to the media.

There has been relentless character assassination. A relentless character assassination.

And for more than a month, claims that a decision on whether to lay charges was imminent. I'm looking forward, finally, to having my day in court.

I'm innocent of these charges. They are false. The whole idea of sexual abuse is abhorrent to me.

I've kept Pope Francis - the Holy Father - regularly informed during these long months.

I have spoken to him on a number of occasions in the last week, I think - most recently, a day or so ago.

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We talked about my need to take leave to clear my name.

So I'm very grateful to the Holy Father for giving me this leave to return to Australia.

I've spoken to my lawyers about when this will be necessary. And I've spoken to my doctors about the best way to achieve this.

All along, I have been completely consistent and clear in my total rejection of these allegations.

News of these charges strengthens my resolve, strengthens my resolve.

And court proceedings now offer me an opportunity to clear my name and then return here back to Rome to work.

Thank you.