A report today highlighted a contentious issue with reporting child abuses by the clergy. In many states (oddly conservative ones ) what is disclosed, in the confessional is not exempted from disclosure to the authorities. In some states, as Washington, it is. This exemption is, of course, led by the Catholic Church and Jehovah’s Witness. ”Priests, pastors and bishops from various faiths say both sides of an apparent collision of ideals are sacred to them: protecting children from all forms of abuse, and keeping confessions confidential so penitents feel safe and motivated to acknowledge and stop their sinful — and sometimes criminal — behavior.” [deseret.com]. I also learned of another group I did not know existed “The Association of Secular Elected Officials.” [secularofficials.org] The existence of this group is some cause for hope.