Forgiveness, healing intention of Aug. 28 Mass

Archbishop Gregory Aymond will be the principal celebrant of a Mass on Tuesday, Aug. 28 at 6 p.m. at St. Joseph Church, 1802 Tulane Ave., New Orleans, with the intention of “the Church asking for forgiveness and for the healing of victims” of sexual abuse.

All in the Archdiocese of New Orleans are invited to participate.

In an Aug. 16 letter to his “brother priests” of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, Archbishop Aymond said: “These are indeed challenging times for our church. For us as clergy, we rightfully feel pain, anger and disappointment in bishops and some of our fellow clergy who have been unfaithful their vocation.

“I write today to let you know I share your pain. We must be there for our people as they express to us disappointment and anger. There is no excuse for what has happened in the church. We as a church must ask for forgiveness and repent. If anyone who has been abused comes to you, please have them call me directly. We must continue our efforts in safe environment.

“My heart goes out to you – very good and dedicated priests who serve God’s people faithfully and become tainted by the sins of others. Please join me in persevering. Remember that for most of our people, their true image of the church is the local priest with whom they interact and trust. Thank you for being there for them. Thank you for your ministry. Please join me in prayer and fasting in reparation for the sins of the church. Together we bear the cross and strive to help our people heal.”