[ Light sees the trap, but he isn't going to fall for it. It's interesting enough that L makes the play. They both know what he's saying, and what he doesn't say. It would be like swinging at a foul ball. It's best to ignore it for now. ]

In theory, that's the way it's supposed to work. Sometimes, it does. Even then, they have more respect and recognition than the other members of the church. They're complimented, and the people in the church will usually side with them.

A lot of cult leaders definitely take advantage of the power they hold. I would say that's the biggest difference between them and a priest. A cult leader demands such devotion that he can have sex with any member he wants and convince them it's not only the right thing to do, but that they're lucky to have the chance. Religion is a bit more removed. The priest doesn't have that much power. Instead, when it's abused, the victims are shamed into staying silent. Who would believe someone so high in the church would go against their faith? They're above us so they should also be above our temptations.

I'm not saying that's the case for this church. I don't expect the priest to try and seduce me, either.