I welcome Pope Benedict's Pastoral Letter to the Catholics of Ireland, expressing his dismay at the abuse of children and vulnerable young people by Church representatives and the way Church authorities in Ireland dealt with them.This is a very difficult time for all members of our Church. We are experiencing a sense of anger, shame and confusion. It is, therefore, a source of encouragement and hope to know that the Pope shares our pain and sadness.
His concern for the victims of abuse and their families is particularly welcome. To them he says: "Your have suffered grievously and I am truly sorry".
He goes on to say that on several occasions he has met with victims of abuse and that he is ready to do the same in the future.
The Pope calls on Bishops to cooperate with the civil authorities. I want to assure you that this is the policy of our diocese and that all allegations of child sexual abuse by priests have been reported to the civil authorities.
I welcome the Pope's request that the lay faithful be encouraged to play their proper part in the life of the Church. Again, I want to stress that lay people are involved in safeguarding children on the Diocesan Safeguarding Committee and that 116 lay people are active in our 52 parishes in monitoring the implementation of the diocesan safeguarding policies and procedures.
I welcome the Pope's intention to hold an Apostolic Visitation of certain dioceses in Ireland and I would be very pleased if our diocese were one of the dioceses selected for the Visitation.
The Pope calls for healing, repentance and renewal in the Church in Ireland and proposes some concrete initiatives. Renewal will not happen overnight. I would welcome your advice and suggestions on how we might carry this process forward.
Finally, I ask you all to heed the Pope's request that we read the letter ourselves when it becomes available with an open heart and in a spirit of faith.
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