The Church Responds to Sexual Abuse Letters
Three sexual abuse survivors — Ann Hagan Webb, Robert Costello, and Bernie McDaid — wrote open letters to Pope Francis about his visit, and whether it should include Boston. You can read the letters here, and the church’s response below.
Terrence Donilion, secretary of communications for the Archdiocese of Boston:
“We would of course enthusiastically welcome Pope Francis to Boston. It is our understanding that in addition to being present for the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia, which is the central activity of the visit to the United States, the Holy Father is also planning to visit Washington, DC and New York during this relatively short trip. The fact that the Pope is coming to the United States presents a wonderful opportunity for all people to join in prayer and reflection on the works of mercy entrusted to the Church and the Catholic community’s hopes for the future.
Since arriving in Boston in July 2003, the Cardinal has led the Archdiocese of Boston response to clergy sexual abuse with a focus on child protection and caring for survivors and their families. Through its Office of Pastoral Support and Outreach, the Archdiocese continues to make counseling and other services available to survivors, their families and parishes impacted by clergy sexual abuse and by allegations of abuse by members of the clergy. Cardinal Seán encourages any person in need of pastoral assistance or support to contact the Archdiocese’s Office of Pastoral Support and Outreach by calling 617-746-5985.
There are no words that alone can heal the wounds of sexual abuse. Individuals, families and communities have been impacted. Our shared commitment must be to be vigilant in our child protection programs and ensure that all of our parishes, schools and ministries are safe and faith-filled places for all people.’’
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