It was encouraging to see the elephant in the room recognised in the editorial on the reform of seminaries (12 February). That the demeanour of some of the current products reflects more a power model than one of service bodes ill for avoiding a repetition of abuse.

While bureaucracies multiply to ensure overburdened pastoral workers comply with the recommendations of inquiries, a new breed with the old trappings enters by the back door. The explosive combination of sex and power must be exposed in the formation process and, as Pope Francis emphasises, clericalism must give way to the humble and simple service model of Christ.