Prayer service to help survivors look for ‘Hope Beyond the Cross’
On Monday, Sept. 14, the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, NJ, will welcome survivors of clerical abuse, along with all those who are suffering due to injustice, failure, regret, or shame.
Organized by the Archdiocese of Newark’s Department for the Protection of the Faithful, the “Hope Beyond the Cross” prayer service seeks to help participants find “healing through humble faith.”
The prayer service, which begins at 7 p.m., will be led by Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archbishop of Newark, who remains committed to supporting survivors of clerical abuse.
As part of the service, participants will have the opportunity to light a candle or fill out a prayer intention card for themselves or for a loved one who is a survivor of abuse. Victims of injustice and suffering, those burdened by failure, regret, or shame, individuals and families seeking healing, and all those whose faith has been tested will also be invited to come forward with candle or card, placing their need for healing before the Crucified Christ.
Bringing ‘new life’ to those who suffer
Mark Joseph Williams, an author and survivor of clerical abuse, will share his own journey of healing. He will speak about how God transformed his own suffering, about the need for honesty when facing life’s wounds, and how struggle is part of every faith journey, among other topics.
Cardinal Tobin will also share his own reflections during the service.
Organizers said that they hope that the service will “bring new life” to those who feel overwhelmed and mark the beginning of a healing journey for many.
“The Department for the Protection of the Faithful remains committed to supporting survivors by offering opportunities for hope and healing,” said Gina Criscuolo, coordinator of the Office of Accompaniment. “Prayer and candle-lit services and healing rosaries are a few of the ways that we have offered both in person and virtual healing events. We remain committed to helping those who have been affected by abuse and all those who love and care for them.”
Those who cannot attend the service in person can participate via a livestream.
CLICK HERE to learn more about the “Hope Beyond the Cross” prayer service. To learn more about creating safe environments, reporting abuse, how to find healing, or related matters, visit the Department for the Protection of the Faithful.
Featured image: The “Hope Beyond the Cross” prayer service will be held on Sept. 14 in the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, NJ. (Photo by John Touhey / Archdiocese of Newark)
