WHEN: Tuesday, March 29 at 6 p.m.
WHERE: Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw and also livestreamed
Bishop Gruss invites you to join him in praying for those who have been wounded by abuse.
He celebrated the Diocese of Saginaw’s first Mass of Atonement in 2020, laying before God the Father the sorrow of all victims of child abuse and neglect, in particular, the victims of child sexual abuse by clergy.
A victim-survivor from our diocese encourages attendance at this Mass as well, sharing the following:
“On my journey of healing these many years, I have needed the support of my church community. Support is not just in words, but in presence. It is a smile, a handshake, a thank-you, a let me help you. Support is kneeling together, praying for one another and for healing. It is asking God for his love, mercy and forgiveness.
Come to the Mass of Atonement with me, a victim. Pray for our Bishop and faithful priests and nuns. Ask for forgiveness and healing for all who have sinned.” READ MORE
All are invited to join Bishop Gruss for the Diocese of Saginaw Mass of Atonement, uniting the intercessory prayers of the Church to God, who alone can lead us to eternal happiness.
Bishop Gruss shares the following with the faithful: National Child Abuse Prevention Month
In April, which is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, we are all encouraged to recognize the signs of child abuse and to report to legal authorities. The abuse of one child is a tragedy that cries out to heaven.
"See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father." (Matthew 18:10)
In our own Church, the sexual abuse of children and youth by clergy has been a source of tremendous sorrow, anger, and betrayal. It has deeply wounded victims and their families. I ask all of you to join me in praying for healing of those who have been hurt, and I call upon each one of us to renew our vigilance and compassion.
On March 29, I will celebrate a Mass of Atonement at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption at 6 p.m. During this Mass, I will lay before God the Father the sorrow of all victims of child abuse and neglect and in particular the victims of child sexual abuse by clergy. I ask that you join me in person for this liturgy, which also will be available via livestream, in seeking reconciliation with God and forgiveness of sin.
Our safe Environment training has been substantially improved and enhanced during the past 2 years. The training includes scenarios, which help participants recognize the signs of child sexual abuse and offers details about the proper steps to report. Since August 2020, safe environment training has been offered virtually and in-person. From August 2020 through 2021, 1,383 adults were (re)trained. During this same period, criminal history background checks were updated for all employees and volunteers in contact with minors.
Especially during this month of April, I invite all people of good will to pray for the healing of those who have been mistreated by those in authority. May we never turn aside from caring for God’s little ones.