Papal emissary will meet sex abuse victims

Papal emissary will meet child sex abuse victims


The Apostolic Visitation to Ireland to assist the Irish Church in a healing process following the crisis caused by the sexual abuse of children by some priests and religious centres on the 56-parish Archdiocese of Tuam this week.
Archbishop Terrence Prendergast of Ottawa, Canada, who was appointed by Pope Benedict XVI to visit the Archdiocese, said he was available to meet with those who have been harmed by abuse in the Tuam archdiocese who may wish to speak to him about their experience.
“My hope is to share with them the sorrow of a contrite church and the pastoral care which Pope Benedict and the church hold out to them.  As well I will be in touch with officials in Tuam to evaluate how well the Guidelines for Safeguarding Children have been implemented and are working,” he said.
Archbishop Prendergast’s visit comes at a time when The Mayo News understands there is no current allegation of abuse against any serving priest in the Archdiocese.  Guidelines for the safeguarding of children are also being vigorously implemented throughout the archdiocese.
Dr Prendergast said his intention was to gather and meet with victims, with the Archbishop (Neary) and officials and with priests, religious and laity knowing that the crisis of the sexual abuse of minors has had profound effects on the life of the whole community.
He said – “Last March Pope Benedict gave voice to his profound sorrow and deep regret over the sexual abuse of children, perpetrated by priests and religious, and over the lack of an adequate response to the way in which such cases were handled in the past.  Pope Benedict sees this visitation as apostolic and pastoral opportunities to assist the Irish Church to heal from this grievous wound.”
Anybody who wishes to share their testimony with Archbishop Prendergast can contact him through the Apostolic Nunciature in Dublin to make an appointment or to submit their views in written form.
In connection with the Apostolic Visitation there will be a penitential prayer service tonight, Tuesday, December 14 in Tuam Cathedral at 7.30 pm.
Dr Prendergast has also invited young people to join with him in a prayerful pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick on Saturday next, December 18, beginning at 9 am.
He added – “In the deep darkness of the days leading towards the winter solstice, we will pray in Tuam and at Croagh Patrick that the light of Christ will lead us all to a brighter day, one filled with hope for the healing and renewal that only God can give.”