Essay Questions

Why does Father Pacquin freely admit to molesting children?

There are two possible reasons why Father Pacquin freely admits to molesting children.

The first, and most probable explanation, is that Pacquin sees nothing wrong with molesting children. After all, he had been molested as a child, and when that kind of horrendous behavior is perpetrated on a child, science says they are more likely to engage in that behavior themselves.

The second, and less probable explanation, is that Pacquin feels that by admitting to his sins, he will have a better chance of going to heaven.

Why did the Catholic Priests of old not get prosecuted for their crimes?

In the past, the Catholic Church wielded an inordinate amount of power in the world. In fact, they were so powerful that they could sway the will of governments - particularly police departments and district attorneys’ offices. And the Church used that power to evil ends, covering up hundreds or thousands of abuse cases out of profound fear.

Why are priests more likely to commit rape?

In the film, it's mentioned that approximately 6% of priests will commit rape while in the priesthood. This is because, the film argues, marginal men are more likely to enter the priesthood to try to hide from (or at the very least channel) their horrible urges.