The Dark Night of the Catholic Church is a timely and important book focusing on the current crisis over both the sexual abuse of children by priests and other church members and the church hierarchy's failures in addressing such severe issues.

Seventeen skilled writers have contributed their experience in both a readable and approachable language.

The initial chapters of this book deal with the difficult and perplexing issue of child abuse by clergy, with contributions by an abuser, two victims of abuse and a bishop responsible for responding to the abuse.

Following the initial chapters, Dark Night of the Catholic Church looks at how best to respond to abuse, the appropriate treatment of both victims and perpetrators and goes on to explore the proper pastoral response to allegations.

The final part of the book deals with education and prevention of child sexual abuse, making it essential reading for those preparing to enter ministry and responsible for ensuring a culture of safe-guarding in the churches future.

Full of resources and invaluable background material this is essential reading for those involved in Church leadership and in positions of responsibility over children not just in the Catholic Church, but in all denominations.