12/13/02

Statement by the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Boston:

As women of unity and reconciliation whose deepest desire is to foster healing where there is brokenness and in the light of the pope’s acceptance of Cardinal Law’s resignation as archbishop of Boston:

We express both profound sadness and renewed hope at the unprecedented circumstances that face our Church community.

• We are forever saddened to know of the many victims of abuse by priests. We experience deep pain at the climate of secrecy. Yet we are hopeful that today begins a new moment to embrace new avenues of healing.

• We are forever saddened by the brokenness in our church and the betrayal of trust among people of good faith. Yet we are hopeful that today marks the beginning of new initiatives to rebuild trust and heal fractured relationships.

We stand in solidarity with all who continue to work for unity and reconciliation in our church. We offer our commitment to accompany others on the journey of rebuilding trust, healing fractured relationships, and bringing about unity among people of good will.

As Sisters of St. Joseph of Boston, faithful Catholics, and members of the church of Boston we grieve with the victims and their families and pledge ourselves to the restoration of right relationships in our church and world. We pray for Cardinal Law and desire, as he does, the healing, reconciliation, and unity of the people of the archdiocese. As Bishop Lennon assumes the complex responsibility of Apostolic Administrator of the Archdiocese of Boston, we pledge our support and offer to commit ourselves to full participation in creating a renewed Church.