12/13/02

This morning, at the Basilica, we prayed for the Catholic people of Boston, for all our people of faith across the country, for victims of abuse, and for Cardinal Law as we learned the news of his resignation. In taking this step, he has been guided by his sense of accountability and guided by what he believes the Lord is calling him to do.

I join Cardinal Law in praying that this will be an act of purification for our Church, allowing us to begin healing and reconciliation. Many people have suffered. Trust has been betrayed. Yet, now is not the time to turn away. It is time for us to come together to answer scandal with witness and service, rededicating ourselves to lifting up Christ’s call to holiness and hope.

Here in Baltimore, we struggle with what has occurred, but we must persevere in loving Jesus and living as Jesus. Today, our hearts are tinged with sadness, but may we awake tomorrow with new hope for our Church.