While often called a "pedophile scandal," research indicates that approximately 77% of clerical abuse victims were 11 years of age or older , categorized as ephebophilia (attraction to adolescents) rather than classic pedophilia. 2. Pastoral Response to Teen Pornography Consumption
The Catholic Church views the consumption of pornography as a "mortal sin" that harms human dignity. Recent pastoral letters, such as the USCCB's updated Create in Me a Pure Heart (2025) , address the "loneliness epidemic" and cultural trends that lead teens to porn. Helping Parents Navigate Online Exposure (Catholic Edition) catholic teen porn
This landmark investigation identified over 300 "predator priests" and more than 1,000 victims. One notable case involved a ring of priests in Pittsburgh who photographed teenage boys naked on church grounds in the 1970s. While often called a "pedophile scandal," research indicates