Too much focus on scandal
THE POPE'S visit to the United States has been a great source of excitement in my house. Three of my four children go to a Catholic school, and I am a newly converted Catholic. My children have been learning about Pope Benedict XVI, and have been anxiously anticipating his arrival. Unfortunately, every time the pope appears on the news and my children flock to the television, I feel as if I need to turn down the volume or turn off the TV itself. It seems that the reporting and headlines reveal all that the media feel is important about this holy visit: the church sex abuse scandal.
Although I don't believe in shielding my children from certain truths, I don't think that at age 6, 9, and 11 they need to listen to the details of the sex scandal again and again. My heart goes out to the victims, and I am sure that there is no one who will ever forget the horrible events that took place. However, on the pontiff's visit, the focus should be more positive. As a non-Catholic growing up, I still remember vividly Pope John Paul's visit and the excitement surrounding it. I hope my children will remember Pope Benedict's visit in the same manner - if they are able to watch any coverage of it.
KELLEY SANTANGELO
West Roxbury 