Seeking Help for Friend

[USUlsterScot]

I recently found out that a friend of mine and his wife have stopped attending Church. We go to different churches so I was not aware. He told me it was because his wife was profoundly affected by the child abuse problems in the Boston area and an area in Louisiana. I don’t have many details, but it appears the Church’s lack of response to stop these problems and their rather poor response after they became public is what has affected her. She also feels strongly that the Church protected too many priests and Church officials from prosecution

I understand how she may feel, but I don’t think it is a good reason to not attend church and separate oneself from Christ and the sacraments that may actually help one cope with all this negative news. What can I say to him and her to make them understand that they are only hurting themselves? He seems willing to return to the Church, but she is strongly opposed. I would like to reach out and see if I can help get her see the light and get back to the church. It also appears she has not carried her feelings to her Pastor. Your help would be most appreciated.
Yours in Christ,

Chuck

 

[Robert_Burns]

I recently found out that a friend of mine and his wife have stopped attending Church. We go to different churches so I was not aware. He told me it was because his wife was profoundly affected by the child abuse problems in the Boston area and an area in Louisiana. I don’t have many details, but it appears the Church’s lack of response to stop these problems and their rather poor response after they became public is what has affected her. She also feels strongly that the Church protected too many priests and Church officials from prosecution

I understand how she may feel, but I don’t think it is a good reason to not attend church and separate oneself from Christ and the sacraments that may actually help one cope with all this negative news. What can I say to him and her to make them understand that they are only hurting themselves? He seems willing to return to the Church, but she is strongly opposed. I would like to reach out and see if I can help get her see the light and get back to the church. It also appears she has not carried her feelings to her Pastor. Your help would be most appreciated.
Yours in Christ,

Chuck

Perhaps she should go to a Traditional Chapel and attend the Latin Mass. Try suggesting it.

 

[Kat127]

I think what you could do is bring this to the attention of your pastor. Let him know there are people who have stopped going to Mass because of this. The more the parish priest hear of this problem the more we might get a real response from the Church authorities.

I feel for your friend. My children will never attend Catholic schools. I will not leave them alone with a priest until I am sure they understand what is and is not appropriate behavior. I cannot trust the Church will protect my family.

I’m sure your friend’s wife is thinking similar things. You can’t rebuild the trust the Church has lost but you can tell them they have lost it.

Good luck!