Christopher E. Grief and Zachary Halloran (a seminarian of the Archdiocese of Mobile) are instituted into the Ministry of Acolyte by Fr. Denis Robinson, OSB, on Feb. 19, 2021, at St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology. COURTESY OF DEACON COREY D. BRUNS
For healing, love and mercy
Annual prayer service held for abuse awareness
BY ELIZABETH WONG BARNSTEAD, THE WESTERN KENTUCKY CATHOLIC
The hymn summarized the purpose of the gathering that evening: “If any member suffers, we all will suffer, too. Bring healing, love and mercy! Bring justice, God of truth!”
Titled “O God, When Trust is Shattered,” the hymn by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette opened the Diocese of Owensboro’s annual Evening Prayer for Protection and Healing, held at St. Stephen Cathedral in Owensboro on April 21.
The 45-minute service coincided with April being designated as Child Abuse Prevention Month, but the gathering was dedicated to more than those impacted by child abuse. It also served to pray for and join in solidarity with anyone – be they child, youth or vulnerable adult – harmed by abuse at the hands of anyone representing the Catholic Church – whether recently or long ago.
Holding lit candles, attendees prayed along with Bishop William F. Medley, who presided at the service. Those who wished to attend virtually could watch via the cathedral’s livestream on Facebook or YouTube.
“My brothers and sisters, let us make our prayer one with those around the country who pledge that we will protect, and heal,” said Bishop Medley in his homily.
Information about virtual support group opportunities for victims/survivors of abuse may be accessed at https://owensborodiocese.org/support-group/ and https://owensborodiocese.org/safe.
Originally printed in the May 2022 issue of The Western Kentucky Catholic.
