To the People of God of the Diocese of Saginaw (from Bishop Robert Gruss) :
While the pandemic of coronavirus impacts our lives in so many ways, we must not lose sight of the suffering from abuse far too many children endure and have endured over the years.
April 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 September 14, 2020, I will celebrate a Mass of Atonement at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption at 6 pm. In 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 this liturgy, which will be available by livestream [https://saginaw.org/cathedral-live), in seeking reconciliation with God and forgiveness of sin.
In recent months, the Review Board has advised me regarding revision of the Policy for the Protection of Children, Young People & Vulnerable Adults in the Diocese of Saginaw. This Policy, forthcoming in the near future, describes safe environment requirements and expands protective measures for adults unable to protect themselves from abuse, neglect, or exploitation because of a mental or physical impairment or because of advanced age.
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.
Sincerely in the peace and joy of Christ,
Most Reverend Robert D. Gruss
Bishop of Saginaw
Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People- a comprehensive set of procedures originally established by the USCCB in June 2002 for addressing allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy. The Charter also includes guidelines for reconciliation, healing, accountability, and prevention of future acts of abuse. It was revised in 2005, 2011, and 2018.