Forgiveness forever

Some time ago the recently appointed head of the German Protestant church (whose flock comprise around 30 per cent of the country’s population) was caught driving after she had consumed probably a bottle of wine (or its equivalent). Leading newspapers and commentators were unanimous in their conclusion that there is no pressing need for her to step down. What would happen, really, if society starts holding everyone responsible for every small lapse in judgment and responsibility? She did resign, but what's the point of such an empty gesture?