Diocese of Brooklyn Holds Mass of Hope and Healing for Clergy Abuse Survivors in Flushing, New York

The Diocese of Brooklyn’s annual Mass of Hope and Healing was held Oct. 29 at Mary’s Nativity Church in Flushing. Survivors of clergy sexual abuse, clergy and members of the community gathered for an evening of prayer, support and reflection. Bishop Robert Brennan celebrated the liturgy and spoke about the strength that comes from gathering in faith.

“We’re all flawed and limited, and we’re doing the best that we can,” Bishop Brennan said. “And, on a night like this, when we can gather and be together, it’s a source of great strength and inspiration.”

Since April 2015, survivors have partnered with the diocese’s Office of Victim Assistance Ministry to organize the annual Mass. The tradition grew out of that collaboration, and its purpose is to pray for survivors, their families, the Church and the continued protection of children and young people.

Elizabeth Harris, the diocese’s victim assistance coordinator, said she hopes the gathering helps survivors feel supported and welcomed. “I truly hope and pray that it does help, that it just gives them that support and that they really do feel that this is a place that they can come to find healing,” Harris said.

Father Jeffrey Dillon, who is a priest and a survivor of clergy sexual abuse, said the Mass gives survivors an opportunity to recognize that they are not alone. “It’s certainly an opportunity for people to come together and to recognize that they’re not alone, that there’s a community of faith that supports them and journeys with them,” Father Dillon said.

Gene Doyle, a survivor from Queens, said the annual liturgies have become an important part of his personal healing. “I’ve found these liturgies to be very helpful. I was glad there’s more focus these days on reconciliation,” Doyle said.

This was the fifth time Bishop Brennan had celebrated the Mass. He said the Diocese of Brooklyn must remain committed to creating safe environments, addressing past failures and supporting those who have been hurt. “We’re really trying to work hard to provide safe environments, to address where things are wrong, to be instruments of healing and peace when we can,” Bishop Brennan said.

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