April 27, 2024

Bishop Byrne celebrates Mass for child abuse survivors

REGIONAL
Staff report

 

 

SPRINGFIELD –In commemoration of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, which is observed in April, Springfield Bishop William D. Byrne offered a Mass for child abuse survivors on Friday, April 26, at St. Michael’s Cathedral in Springfield. The special liturgy was open to all survivors of child abuse, as well as for their families and loved ones, and for those who support and advocate for them. 

“I’m sorry that we even have to gather here, that there are victims who were hurt by people who were supposed to be representing the church. We can never stop being remorseful. I am sorry. I will never stop saying that,” said Bishop Byrne in his homily.

He also thanked survivors for their courage.

“Thank you for the witness, for the courage you have shown. Thank you for all you do to protect children,” he said.

In the last few years, the Office of Safe Environment and Victim Assistance (OSEVA) has undergone several changes to improve the way the Diocese of Springfield handles and responds to allegations of sexual abuse. The diocese has a joint memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the three district attorneys’ offices whose jurisdictions cover western Massachusetts. The MOU dictates that allegations of sexual abuse are first investigated by law enforcement, before the diocese conducts an investigation.

Currently, the recommendations of the Independent Task Force on the Response to Sexual Abuse Within the Diocese of Springfield are being implemented. The Task Force had outlined a strategic plan to bolster safe environment policies and to ensure transparency, accountability, and safety.

In addition, the list of credibly accused priests was updated to include the names of priests who were deceased at the time of abuse allegations, along with religious order members, clergy from other dioceses, and lay employees.

“We stand with all individuals who have experienced child abuse, especially sexual abuse by representatives of the church,” said Michael Collins, the director of OSEVA.

“During this month especially, we gather to recommit our pledge to healing, to working in partnership with the community and to ensuring safe and nurturing environments that all children deserve,” he said.

Two rows of blue pin wheels lined the walkway of the cathedral. The blue pinwheel is the national symbol for child abuse prevention.

“It’s almost been six years to the day since I came forward after having been abused by clergy. It’s empowering to come back to church. It’s empowering to listen to the bishop speak,” said Doug Cole, a survivor who has come back to the Catholic faith in recent years. Cole has been an advocate for other survivors.

“It amazes me what I can do with my faith. I am not saying it’s easy. Even sitting there today, I’m crying because you know I’m a human being and I was hurt, but also a human being who is loved, so that’s a blessing,” Cole said.

A light reception followed in the Bishop Marshall Center.

Any victims of sexual abuse by a representative of the church should first contact law enforcement and report their abuse to the diocese by calling 800-842-9055 or sending an email to reportabuse@diospringfield.org.