The Catholic University of America

Hosted by The Catholic University of America, May 1, 2019

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On May 1, 2019, The Catholic Project of The Catholic University of America hosted an event in which Spirit Fire facilitated a day of dialogue between bishops and archbishops and survivors. Attended 20+ bishops and a similar number of survivors of clergy abuse, the day-long event included scholars and other practitioners (including media) from diverse disciplines. Many attendees reported returning to their respective homes with new and creative approaches -- with hope -- in caring for survivors, families, and the Church as a whole.

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The format was a blend of short reflections and seated panel discussions including Spirit Fire survivors and by guests, including Cardinal Sean O’Malley of Boston MA, Bishop Edward Burns of Dallas TX, Bishop W. Shawn McKnight of Jefferson City MO, Bishop Edward S. Scharfenberger of Albany NY,  Bishop Chad Zielinski (formerly) of Fairbanks AK but currentlly of New Ulm MN.

The brochure for this event may be found here.

The Catholic University of America created a moving gallery of survivor stories displayed in a respectful manner, providing peaceful space for prayer and reflection during the May event. The exhibit was available to attendees and, as a way to bring the statistics of scandal to a human scale, for the student body.

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