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Archives As Jubilee Year of Mercy comes to an end
Diocese reaches out to clergy abuse victims

Nov. 16, 2016

As the Jubilee Year of Mercy is set to conclude  Nov. 20, Bishop Terry R. LaValley has extended an apology and helping hand to the victims of clergy sexual abuse.

“This year of mercy has focused us on our sinfulness and the need for God’s mercy.  The sin and scandal of clergy sexual abuse still wounds us and causes us pain,” Bishop LaValley said.  “The Jubilee Year of Mercy reminds us that we are all sinners and that our sins cause harm. 

“This Jubilee Year of Mercy would not be complete without again acknowledging the pain of the victims of clergy sexual abuse and extending to them our apology and help,” he said.

While the church has made documented progress in protecting children and young people and raising awareness of child sexual abuse, Bishop LaValley says that we must never forget those victimized by this sin. 

“We have done much to create a safe environment for children and young people in our church, especially since the implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People: zero tolerance for guilty clergy, full cooperation with law enforcement, comprehensive child safety education for all involved in ministry or service to children and young people, background checks of those involved in ministries with children, and outreach and assistance offered to the victims, “ he said.

“Yet, this year in which we celebrate the healing mercy of God calls on us to once again apologize for this scandal and to offer reconciliation and healing to victims,” the bishop said. “We need to offer more compassion and help to victims.”.

“While we cannot make victims whole or make up for the suffering they have endured, we have consistently tried to acknowledge their pain and alleviate their suffering by offering counseling and any support possible,” Bishop LaValley continued.   “This Year of Mercy calls us to continue to seek reconciliation and healing for victims of clergy sex abuse.   Despite our efforts, there is still need for reconciliation and healing:  there is more we can do.”

The sex abuse scandal leaves many still suffering and looking for closure.  “Many victims are in pain and looking for more compassion from the church,” he said.

“To those people I am reaching out,” he said. “I invite them to come forward and to allow us the opportunity to help them heal.”

The diocese is planning a prayer service to allow the Ogdensburg church to again acknowledge the pain caused and to apologize for the conduct that caused that pain.

“This crisis has impacted all of us in the church, and we need to ask God’s help for continued healing,” Bishop LaValley said.

Additionally, Bishop LaValley is inviting those who have been victimized by any member of the clergy or employee of the diocese to come forward so that the process of healing and moving forward can continue.

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