When Talking the Talk is not enough
by Carolyn Disco, VOTF NH Survivor Support chair

“The impact of prayer services and healing masses in helping survivors was questioned by SNAP’s David Clohessy (“Thanks, but no, thanks” – June 2005 Vineyard) but endorsed by VOTF-Maine’s Doris Buonomo (“Dialogue as Prelude to Action” – Sept. 8 Vineyard).

Clohessy’s point was that such efforts become empty symbols if substantive actions by bishops to alleviate suffering and prevent abuse are absent: release of the names of credibly-accused priests, release of documents so the truth may be known, access to parish bulletins for outreach to possible victims, and reform of archaic statutes of limitations laws that both prevent criminal prosecution of abusers and deny survivors the ability to pursue justice and healing through the courts.

Buonomo’s point was that Maine’s experience with prayerful liturgies was positive; that they helped survivors come forward, offered them opportunities for meaningful participation in planning the prayers, and became healing moments for those in attendance. No doubt others have found the same meaningful outcome.

My point is that Buonomo avoided the thrust of Clohessy’s objections by failing to address one simple fact: that despite countless healing masses and apologies, the substantive record of bishops in healing the wounded and safeguarding the vulnerable is sorely lacking. Talking the talk is not enough when bishops still fight tooth and nail to keep documents secret (Los Angeles), engage in legal hardball like deposing wives and former girlfriends about the sex lives of survivors (Spokane), vigorously oppose statute of limitations reform (Ohio), and endanger children by refusing to release all the names of proven, admitted or credibly-accused abusive clerics. Only about a half dozen dioceses have identified them, when all need to do so. And the settlements that were reached would never have been possible without pressure from the courts and the media.

I agree with Buonomo that prayer is vital and, by the grace of God, that healing masses can indeed be healing. But Clohessy’s plea for action is compelling. James 2:14 tells us that faith without works is useless. I understand why survivors are tired of the Word being betrayed by actions they endure as negating or compromising its intent.

Even in Maine where Buonomo lives, Bishop Richard Malone and his predecessor dragged survivor Michael Fortin through years of agonizing legal battles before settling the case in such a way that the documents will never be released. The diocese spent tens of thousands of parishioners’ contributions in an effort to keep itself immune from liability, but the state’s highest court mercifully ruled otherwise. There was nothing preventing that exact same settlement with Fortin years earlier - if the primary impetus had been truly pastoral. Another survivor courageously came forward this year in the press and not one priest (or bishop) in Maine contacted her to offer support or comfort. So, it is understandable how SNAP and others view the hierarchy's proclaimed ‘outreach’ as highly selective and therefore questionable.

I commend the Maine Council’s efforts to dialogue as a preview to action, with collaborative prayer as the instrument. The liturgies they have developed are a valuable resource. But action by bishops on the measures survivors indicate they most seek is also required. The former without the latter rings hollow. I propose that VOTF’s survivor support initiatives must include both approaches – prayer and action – if the healing and reconciliation for which we all yearn is to find expression.

 



In the Vineyard
October 6, 2005
Volume 4, Issue 13
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A Prayer of Thanksgiving for Walter - Prayer Vigil, Our Lady Help of Christians, 9/26/05 

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