Church Mulls Canon Law Changes to Deal With Sex Abuse

The Roman Catholic Church is considering unspecified changes to canon law in order to deal more effectively with cases of sex abuse by members of religious orders.

Speaking at a luncheon today sponsored by Time magazine, Cardinal William Levada, who heads the church office that determines how to handle abuse cases, said changes are under consideration, reports the New York Times.

"He would not specify which canons were under re-consideration," the newspaper writes. "But he suggested they relate to the church’s statute of limitations, saying that his office has frequently had to judge allegations from years ago because the victims “ 'don’t feel personally able to come forward' until they are more mature."

Related coverage:

New York Times: "Benedict Meets With the Victims of Sexual Abuse"