WHY PUNISH ME? – Synopsis:
Michael Moloney tells the story of how, as a vulnerable altar boy, he was psychologically and physically abused by Catholic priests.  He explores evidence that abuse is more prevalent in churches than in other comparable settings, a finding supported by recent internationally accredited reports.  Tracing the origins of clerical abuse, the author reminds us that the church has long provided a cover for abusers.  Grimly, he shows how schools might be inadvertently smoothing a path for them.

In 2021 the UK Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse published a dossier of abuse in religious institutions, revealing that the church remains mired in safeguarding and clerical abuse scandals. Yet, by law every school in Britain must take part in a daily act of Collective Worship. And every year 20,000 pupils are assigned faith school places against their families’ preferences.

The author examines a depravity stretching back to St Augustine of Hippo in the 4th century.  He suggests drill and doctrine might play a more influential role in child abuse and adult mental well-being than has generally been recognised in mainstream social science. This book fills a gap in the shelf, lifting the lid on a story of abuse and religious indoctrination which continues to this day.

About Michael Moloney:
Michael Moloney is the pseudonym of an acclaimed British writer. He served as altar boy and chorister while attending boarding schools in Ireland and England, where he faced abuse. Co-author Lorna Graham spent 26 years teaching in schools.  Click footer link for more information