The Reckoning

Laura Murphy-Oates speaks to David Marr and Melissa Davey about the high court decision that quashed George Pell’s child sexual abuse convictions

The cardinal has failed in his attempt to overturn his conviction for child sexual abuse crimes. Why did two judges reject his appeal and why did the third judge disagree? David Marr and Melissa Davey discuss the case and consider what happens now for George Pell Victim advocates cheer as Pell appeal rejected: ‘Hallelujah – proof there is a God’ David Marr: At the verdict George Pell didn’t flinch; he just pursed his lips a little. He was going back to jail How to listen to podcasts: everything you need to know

Over two days in Melbourne, lawyers put to the Victorian court of appeal arguments about whether George Pell’s convictions should be put aside. David Marr and Melissa Davey highlight the most interesting discussions from the court and ask some key questions: did Pell’s defence fail because his team argued it was impossible for the crimes to be committed? Did the prosecution fail to sing the praises of the role of the jury? What must the three judges be thinking? • David Marr: after a train wreck of a day, George Pell’s fate hinges on alibi evidence

In an extraordinary sitting of the county court of Victoria, chief judge Peter Kidd sat and delivered a detailed sentence to George Pell for the five counts of child sexual abuse he had been found guilty of. Melissa Davey tells David Marr why this was a ‘masterclass’ verdict and brings us the personal accounts of those harmed by Pell’s crimes. Read the judge’s full sentencing remarks here David Marr: George Pell’s jailing defies the might of Rome but his fall is too appalling for celebration

Now that George Pell has been found guilty of child sexual abuse, we can ask ourselves: what does his story tell us about the Catholic church? The rise of Pell, from a country diocese in Australia to the highest ranks of the Vatican, shows us what attitudes and actions find swift promotion in this ancient organisation• David Marr: Brutal and dogmatic, George Pell waged war on sex – even as he abused children• Timeline: the rise and fall of George Pell