Confidence in Priests Plunges, Poll Finds
Public confidence in priests and the clergy has dropped sharply in the last year, perhaps as a result of continuing scandals regarding sexual abuse, according to a newly released Harris poll.
A year ago, 90% of adults surveyed said that they would generally trust clergymen or priests to tell the truth. Now 64% feel that way. Last year, clergymen and priests topped a list of 17 occupations and professions as being most trusted for their honesty. This year they rank below teachers, doctors, professors, police officers, scientists, military officers, ordinary people, civil servants and judges.
The nationwide telephone survey questioned 1,010 adults from Nov. 14 through Nov. 18.
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