An article published in a Maine magazine states that the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is encouraging Catholics to pray for victims of child sexual abuse in observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month, which is held every year in April. In addition, Bishop Richard Malone of the Portland Diocese would like each parish in Maine to include special prayers throughout the month in addition to special masses on the weekend of the 25-26 of April to address clergy sexual abuse in the Catholic Church.
Bishop Malone recognizes the past sexual abuse by members of the church, and said that "the Catholic Church seeks forgiveness for past harm and pledges not only to make our parishes and schools safe, but also to give parents and children the information they need to be safe in all settings where children spend time." This is part of a "commitment and responsibility" that is now part of the Catholic Church and the Portland Diocese, including the "Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People," which was put in place in June of 2002 to remove sexually abusive members of the clergy. Additionally, 9,000 employees of the Catholic Church in Maine were given background checks and "safe environment" training.
It is important that you receive the support and resources that you need if you have been sexually abused by a member of the Catholic clergy. The Zalkin Law Firm is a legal group devoted to providing survivors of priest abuse with exceptional legal advice and representation.
Bishop Malone recognizes the past sexual abuse by members of the church, and said that "the Catholic Church seeks forgiveness for past harm and pledges not only to make our parishes and schools safe, but also to give parents and children the information they need to be safe in all settings where children spend time." This is part of a "commitment and responsibility" that is now part of the Catholic Church and the Portland Diocese, including the "Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People," which was put in place in June of 2002 to remove sexually abusive members of the clergy. Additionally, 9,000 employees of the Catholic Church in Maine were given background checks and "safe environment" training.
It is important that you receive the support and resources that you need if you have been sexually abused by a member of the Catholic clergy. The Zalkin Law Firm is a legal group devoted to providing survivors of priest abuse with exceptional legal advice and representation.
