Church leaders take note: Liturgies and prayer resources in response to the Church scandals

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Recently the NCCL‘s newsletter shared this new resource titled “LITURGIES AND PRAYER RESOURCES IN RESPONSE TO RECENT EVENTS.” It is filled with suggested Mass settings, sample prayers, litanies, a list of relevant psalms, and hymn titles. It was developed and provided by the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions.

Download the resource (PDF) here: FDLC_Resources_for_ Liturgy_and_Prayer_August 2018

Here a description of the resource from the Introduction:

The events of the past few weeks have left many people in the Church – clergy and faithful alike — confused, angry, shocked, and bewildered. We grieve for the victims of abuse and for their families. They have endured years, even decades, of physical and psychological scars. All of us, as the Body of Christ, must do all we can to assist them.

Unfortunately, it seems that news accounts have painted the Church and its hierarchy with too broad a brushstroke –condemning all for the failings of a few. Thousands of good and faithful priests are tainted by the actions of those who abused the most vulnerable in their care. Diocesan bishops were all made to look suspect, even though most were diligent in following the charter for the protection of children. The wonderful programs and policies of the Church have become overshadowed by more salacious headlines.

What can we do? First, we can turn to our God in prayer. He never ceases to guide his Church, to sanctify its members, and to protect it from harm. Once again and still, we turn to Jesus, our High Priest, and find consolation and strength in his Word and Sacraments.

How can the FDLC assist you? The following pages provide a variety of options which can be used when we gather for prayer – suggested Mass settings, sample prayers, litanies, a list of relevant psalms, and hymn titles are included.

A complete presider’s text for a Holy Hour — A Celebration of the Word during a Period of Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament — is offered herein.

Besides the letters which your own Bishops have published for their people, you may read the texts from Pope Francis, Cardinal DiNardo, and Archbishop Gregory of Atlanta. In their words, you will find great comfort, sincere compassion, and firm resolve.

Finally, some of you may be gathering your staffs, parishioners or schools for a “town hall meeting.” Some may be gathering in small discussion groups. The talking points provided are certainly not exhaustive; you will have more of your own. A listening ear and a compassionate heart are the best “resources” of all. Draw on the prayers herein to enrich those meetings.

Since 1969, it has been the mission of the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions to serve the liturgical life of the Church in the United States. May this humble offering be yet another effort in staying true to that mission.

Rita A. Thiron
Executive Director
Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions August 26, 2018

Download the PDF by clicking on this link:  FDLC_Resources_for_ Liturgy_and_Prayer_August 2018

 

 

READ MORE: Coping with Church Sex Abuse Scandals: Resources for Catechists

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