February 27.  Fr Pierre had been experiencing a deep sense of guilt in recent months. “I don’t do it any more,” he was tempted to excuse himself, “but I did do harm, maybe even life-long harm, to families and those little boys, those altar servers, who really trusted me. But I’m not the only one, and it isn’t only us priests who did this.  I’ve heard plenty of confessions from men who are struggling with this same temptation.  Shouldn’t they also speak up as Pope Francis is expecting us to do.”  There were days when this question really weighed him down but he was able to share with a fellow priest, a good friend of many years who listened and supported him while he strove to come to terms with his decision to speak up about himself.  

Reflect, share. Scripture Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were hung round his neck and he were thrown into the sea.   Mark 9:41-50.  Pope Francis”:  “The Church asks that people not be silent… since the greater scandal in this matter is that of cloaking the truth,” He said, “To those who abuse minors I would say this — convert and hand yourself over to human justice and prepare for divine justice.”  Address December 2018. JUBILEE.   In the words of Benedict XVI: “At the moment of judgement we experience and we absorb the overwhelming power of his love over all the evil in the world and in ourselves. The pain of love becomes our salvation and our joy”.  SNC 22.   Prayer and action.  Pray for healing and forgiveness found in the heart of Jesus.  Choose appropriate action.