12/13/02

Statement by Cardinal Roger Mahony, Archbishop of Los Angeles, on Cardinal Law's resignation:

Cardinal Bernard Law’s resignation as Archbishop of Boston gives us pause to reflect upon the extraordinarily difficult and painful year 2002 has been for all the Catholic faithful across the nation.

We have heard appalling stories of trust betrayed and innocence lost through the sinful and criminal actions of some priests. Let us continue to pray for the healing of all victims of sexual abuse by clergy. As a community of faith, let us continue our efforts to provide victims with pastoral care and loving support.

We remain firmly committed to our policies and procedures in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles that ensure the safety of our children and all of our ministries. For more than 17 years it has been the policy of this Archdiocese to deal swiftly and effectively with every allegation of sexual abuse. We believe we have been effective. No priest or employee of the Archdiocese who was ever determined to have abused a minor is allowed to serve in ministry in this Archdiocese.

As Christians awaiting shortly the graces of the Incarnation, we fix our focus on Jesus Christ. We are strengthened by his promise to be with us and to guide us at all times and in all places. With the strength of Christ in our lives, we his people will emerge from these difficult days with renewed hope and sense of mission.

Finally, let us also remember in our prayers our brothers and sisters in the Archdiocese of Boston, and pray that with new leadership they will find the wisdom and strength to guide them forward.