What the Catholic Church Is Doing With the Allegations of History

As a Denver resident, lifetime CRC member, Safe Church Rocky Mountain team member, and mental health professional, I am deeply invested in the emotional, sexual, and spiritual health of human beings who have experienced abuse of power, sexual abuse or domestic violence, who may or may not be members of communities of faith, and who have varying relationships with people and organizations of faith. 

Synod has taken steps to encourage our churches to be proactive in what may be new ways for many, to promote healthy relationships between leaders and parishioners, to protect children and vulnerable members, and to seek reconciliation when called for. It's vital that we do work around these difficult issues, as evangelicals also find themselves under public scrutiny.

I recently read an update on actions that three Catholic Church dioceses in Colorado are taking to reconcile with members who were abused by Catholic clergy. Take time to read about the ways in which our Catholic brothers and sisters are finding ways to offer reparations for past evil.

As we, as a body of faith, implement a renewed call to be more like Christ in our relationships with each other, let's remember the power of prevention and promotion, and be resolved to seek reconciliation when we must.

Thank you for the work that you are doing to be the face and body of Christ!