With the Holy Year jubilee celebration of the Catholic Church worldwide, the diocesan Office of Victim Assistance has taken a new approach to its annual Mass to pray for victim-survivors of abuse and their families.
This year, the office has expanded its appeal. The Masses will be offered for all who are suffering in any way, and all are welcome to join in prayerful support for those in need. The Masses will be at the eight Holy Year churches throughout the diocese over the next several months.
The annual Mass began around 20 years ago under Bishop Paul S. Loverde following the U.S. bishops’ “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People,” also known as the Dallas Charter, in response to the clergy sex abuse scandal. He also began holding gatherings to support victim-survivors, something that continues under Bishop Michael F. Burbidge.
Throughout the years, there has been a growing awareness of not only those suffering from abuse but also of people suffering with mental health issues, according to Dr. Frank Moncher, a psychologist and director of the diocesan victim assistance office. He mentioned how these Masses have become a way for the community to pray for those suffering, even when those suffering can’t pray for themselves. With the help of the diocesan mental health council, the goal is to reduce the stigma of mental health issues in the church by allowing more people to come forward and talk about it.
The victim assistance office is building a network of mental health practitioners who provide a Catholic point of view. Some resources currently available are grief support groups, anonymous addiction groups, divorced support groups and programs for victims of sexual abuse.
Most Masses will follow the liturgy Bishop Burbidge has for the Holy Year, with exceptions for pastors making decisions for their parishes and Masses on holy days or solemnities. The Mass readings highlight themes of empathy and helping those in need. The opening Mass June 4 was offered at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Arlington with readings and prayers alternating between English and Spanish. The Masses will continue at each designated church until late October.
