Bishop Robert Deeley has designated Friday, March 5, as a diocesan-wide Day of Prayer and Penance to seek forgiveness for past harm while offering prayers for the healing of victims/survivors of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church. The day will also reaffirm the Diocese of Portland’s continuing pledge to provide a safe environment for children. Bishop Deeley will celebrate Mass on the Day of Prayer and Penance at 12:15 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Portland. The Mass will also be available via livestream at www.portlanddiocese.org/online-Mass. Priests throughout the diocese are encouraged to observe the Day of Prayer and Penance by offering Masses on March 5 that include prayers for victims/survivors of abuse for their healing; for perpetrators of abuse to seek and find repentance and face justice; for diocesan clergy, employees and volunteers to serve with a spirit of respect and humility; and for families to create a safe, loving, and peaceful environment for their children.

As always, Bishop Deeley encourages anyone who may have information about any case of sexual abuse of a minor by a Church representative to contact civil authorities and Michael Magalski, Director of the Office of Professional Responsibility for the Diocese of Portland, at (207) 321-7836 or at michael.magalski@portlanddiocese.org.