c. 2000 Religion News Service
(The following is the text of an apology, issued by Archbishop John G. Vlazny as part of the settlement of 23 sex-abuse lawsuits involving the Rev. Maurice Grammond, a Roman Catholic priest who is now inactive. The letter is to be read this Sunday at all parishes in the archdiocese, a spokesman said.)
“Pope John Paul II has instructed us that `acknowledging the weaknesses of the past is an act of honesty and courage which helps us to strengthen our faith.’ In keeping with that challenge, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Portland in Oregon must now acknowledge some of its past failings so that both the Church and those who may have been harmed by its failings, can begin to heal.
“I again acknowledge that some of the priests of this diocese have sexually molested children who were entrusted to the care of the Church. The abuse of children is a grave moral failing and is contrary to all that the Church stands for. With deep regret, I further acknowledge that some people in the Church community did not believe bona fide reports of abuse and failed to recognize the deep and lasting harm that child abuse causes.
“These painful experiences remind us that there are times when we must act rather than remain silent and passive, be caring instead of indifferent, and follow our conscience rather than be controlled by fear. Otherwise, we may fail again to protect God’s precious gift of our children.
“To any person who has suffered from abuse by any personnel of the Archdiocese of Portland, and to their families, I express my deep regret and ask for pardon and forgiveness.
“I also honor those who have called these failings to our attention. Your immense courage and the resilience of your spirit are a blessing. We extend to you our gratitude and welcome you to our spiritual home.
“It is not enough, however, to express our remorse. I again pledge that any person who discloses abuse by any personnel of the Archdiocese will receive a compassionate and pastoral response from the Church, consistent with clear explicit policies and procedures. I pledge that we will open our hearts to their pain and our ears to their cries. And I pledge that the safety of children entrusted to our care and the healing of abuse survivors will be important Church priorities.”
KRE END SIDEBAR