How to restore unity

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas held their 48th biennial convention last week in Albany. The Evangelist took advantage of the occasion to ask some members the following question: "The CDA motto is 'Unity and Charity.' What suggestions would you make to the bishops to help them restore unity to the Church, which has been splintered by the scandal over the sexual abuse of children?" Here are the responses:

Nancy Verity, St. Mary's parish, Galway: We are all human, and we must realize that with the help of the Holy Spirit and Our Lord, we can strengthen our Church. Prayer and forgiveness are also gifts of the Spirit; we can use them to become stronger.

Mary Baxter, St. Mary's, Galway: I would tell the bishops to be straight-forward and open; that will keep "unity." And remember to use "charity" when dealing with all those involved, victims and abusers. I don't mean financial charity as much as emotional charity. God has His own way of working things out. Keep the faith.

Marlene Nalli, St. James parish, Fort Plain: I would suggest that the bishops not shy away from the subject, but be open and up-front. They might encourage their flock to unite in creating a positive Christian attitude, and remind them that those accused of sexual abuse are in the minority of priests.

Patricia Chase, Assumption/St. Paul Church, Mechanicville: Just because some priests have been accused doesn't mean that they are all guilty. Faith starts at the home with family and friends. We need to start at the beginning to rebuild faith and then move to the community to restore unity in the Church.

Helene Shepard, New York State Regent of the CDA: As Bishop Hubbard mentioned in his remarks at the end of our opening Mass, we are all called to proclaim the Good News of Jesus. This is the unity of purpose that, in charity, will help us in the future.

(05-02-02) [[In-content Ad]]