A videotaped message from Archbishop Blair regarding these matters has been posted on Promise.ArchdioceseofHartford.org. In addition to the video, the Archbishop’s text is also posted on the same site in English, Spanish, and Polish.
The Archbishop has stated that one case of child abuse is one case too many: “I ask—the Church must ask—for forgiveness from those who have been victims of child sexual abuse by clergy, and from their parents, siblings, and friends. Healing and reconciliation continue to be an essential but not easy goal, given the terrible effects that these sins and crimes can cause in the lives of victims, to whom the Church owes the deepest expression of sorrow and apology.”
The AOH has been in compliance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People since it was adopted by the U.S. Bishops in 2002. All policies and codes pertaining to the protection of minors and vulnerable adults can be found in the Archdiocese’s Office of Safe Environment Handbook.
Any incidence of sexual abuse should be reported to Kathleen Nowosadko, Victim Assistance Coordinator, at: 860-541-6475, as well as to the local authorities.
In an effort to apply spiritual remedies to the scandal and tragedy that has seriously wounded so many people in the church, Archbishop Blair will offer Masses of Reparation for the evil that has been done. The first one will take place in Manchester on Sunday, January 27, at 2:00 pm at the St. Bartholomew Church building of St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish.