Ireland’s Cardinal Sean Brady Friday asked God for forgiveness for the times when “we as individuals and as a church” failed to seek out and care for children suffering abuse.
In an open-air Mass in heavy rain at the International Eucharistic Congress, Brady said it was a matter of deep shame that the needs of victims were not responded to.
The Primate has faced calls to consider his position after the broadcasting of a BBC documentary last month focusing on the handling of child abuse concerns relating to paedophile cleric Brendan Smyth.
In his homily, Cardinal Brady said what had happened in the church was a “stark warning” that there “can be no passing by on the other side, no room for half-heartedness in our care for the vulnerable and the young”.
“May God forgive us for the times when we as individuals and as a church failed to seek out and care for those little ones who were frightened, alone and in pain because someone was abusing them,” he said.
“That we did not always respond to your cries with the concern of the Good Shepherd is a matter of deep shame.
“We lament the burdens of the painful memories you carry. We pray for your healing and peace for those whose suffering continues.
“I want to take this opportunity of the 50th International Eucharistic Congress to apologise for the times when some of us were blind to your fear, deaf to your cries and silent in response to your pain.” Continue reading
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