This article investigates the unique impact of abuse by religious figures on the cherished faith traditions and religious practices of victims and faith communities. Three focus groups were held in parishes that had been directly impacted by clergy sexual abuse. Four major themes, common to all groups and shared by most participants, were clearly identified: deep hurt in response to a perceived betrayal by church leaders, a reawakening of pain connected to past injuries by the church, the separation of relationship with God from relationship with the church, and a concern for the spiritual well-being of children and family. Research has suggested that strong leadership, clear information, and swift action in response to credible allegations are needed to address the erosion of trust between Catholics and their bishops and priests. Testimony from participants of the focus groups suggests that these steps are necessary to restore confidence in the church’s capacity to make better decisions when confronted with allegations of priestly misconduct. However, many participants indicated that their worry about the capacity of church leaders to change policies was reinforced by their belief that their bishops and cardinals “simply don’t care,” as evidenced by their prior responses to allegations of clergy-perpetrated sexual abuse. Priests and bishops eager to reengage the laity in a relationship of goodwill and trust may be surprised by the strength of the laity’s resistance to forgiving church leaders. References