“During the past few weeks, the Church in America and beyond has faced the tragedy of child abuse by clergy, leaving our priests and people feeling embarrassed, humiliated and demoralized. Each new accusation of child abuse and failed leadership that comes to light leaves many of us with deep-seated feelings of self-doubt, sadness and anger. As a result of these events, bishops and priests throughout the nations have found themselves under clouds of suspicion as media produces each new allegation.

“Together we find ourselves asking the question, ‘Who could ever have imagined that in such a short time the priesthood would be the subject of such derision, ridicule and doubt?’ Today more than ever the weight of the cross presses upon our shoulders as priests and bishops. The words of the psalmist take on new and poignant meaning: ‘We have become the scorn of our neighbors and the laughingstock of those around us.’ (Psalm 79)”

I will post the entire letter on the bulletin board during the next couple of days. The Archbishop has some important reflections, not just for priests, but all of us.

On Monday of Holy Week I met with my priests’ support group (Jesus Caritas). The six priests in the group felt the embarrassment, sadness and humiliation the Archbishop referred to. We also expressed anger and even disbelief that the Archdiocese of Boston had allowed a child abuser to return to active ministry. Back in the 1980’s Archbishop Hunthausen ordered “the systematic examination of all personnel files and asked the State Attorney General’s Office to review them with an eye toward the safety of our children.” We had assumed this happened in all dioceses. It was discouraging to find out that as late as the early 90’s, a priest with pedophilia tendencies and others who had been involved sexually with teenagers were allowed to continue in the ministry.

At the same time my priest group reflected on this tragedy, we also acknowledged that each of us has our own personal demons, struggles and failures – like every human being. For that reason I am going to make a personal request of you this Holy Thursday. The people who attend this Mass are the core of Holy Family Parish. I know you love the Church and desire the best for her. I ask you to pray for priests.

A friend of mine, inspired by St. Therese of Lisieux, has taken on the commitment to fast one day a week and to pray one hour each day for priests. He said that he knows priests can do great harm, but can also do enormous good. Prayer – not human cleverness – will tip the balance.

I remember attending a conference at Steubenville University. A college girl there told me she was a “Little Flower.” I asked her what that is. She said it was an organization that imitates St. Therese (the “Little Flower”) in praying for priests. I know there are a few “Little Flowers’ here at Holy Family – and they make our parish beautiful.

Many of you have mentioned you pray for priests and specifically for me as your pastor. I deeply appreciate that. The author of Hebrews reminds us that priests do not fall from heaven, but are “taken from among men and made their representatives before God.” (5:1) The priest, he says, “is able to deal patiently with erring sinners, for he himself is beset by weakness.” (v.2)

It is wonderful to offer this Mass of the Last Supper tonight with Fr. Tim McKenna. You have experienced his beautiful ministry these past weeks, during Fr. Ramon’s absence. I am proud to have such brother priests. In a few moments, together with Deacon Ted, we will be washing the feet of twelve representatives. It is a sign of our desire to continue forward in our service. Please pray for us – and all priests and deacons – as we do that.

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