October 31, 2018 Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ: The U.S. bishops are joining together in a commitment of prayer and reparation leading up to the bishops' General Assembly, in Baltimore November 11-15, where we will be making critical decisions in response to the clergy sexual abuse crisis. With my brother bishops across the nation, I will be dedicating myself to seven days of intensified prayer and fasting, from Monday, November 5, through Sunday, November 11 . The intentions for this period of prayer and sacrifice are three-fold: • For the conversion and just punishment of perpetrators and concealers of sexual abuse; and • For the strength of the bishops to be holy shepherds in protecting and leading our faithful from all harm. You are welcome to join me in praying for these intentions. I would also be grateful for any prayers for my brother bishops and me during our General Assembly, that we may follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit in responding to the tragedy of clergy sexual abuse in the Church. Please know of my continued prayers for you and your loved ones. |