The third Catholic Religious Australia National Day of Sorrow and Promise took place on Sunday, October 25, with Catholic Religious across the country holding liturgies to recognise survivors and all who have been harmed from abuse in the Church and to commit to a safer future.
This year, with COVID-19 meaning some people weren’t able to gather, travel or connect face-to-face, the ritual for the National Day of Sorrow and Promise featured the burning of incense and the placing of grains of incense on the burner, as a symbol of cleansing and purification.
The theme for the day was ‘Out of the Depths’, drawn from Matthew’s account of Jesus walking on the water (Matt 14:22-23). Like Jesus, we are called to go out into the storm and reach out to the individual and save that one person, as Jesus saved Peter.
Members of the Passionist community gather for the National Day of Sorrow and Promise liturgy.
CRA prepared a liturgy booklet as well as music suggestions, social media resources and a promise statement to help mark the day.
The statement reads:
As Catholic Religious of Australia, we are stirred by sorrow for the failings of the past. We encounter the depth of pain endured within our midst.
WE promise to listen to and support those who have been harmed by abuse
WE promise to act to prevent abuse, respond with compassion and justice and put the protection of children and the vulnerable at the heart of all our ministries
WE promise to support all those walking courageously with the abused and those working fearlessly for the prevention of abuse
WE promise to work tirelessly and humbly to build a culture in our Church which is loving and answerable to the wider community
WE promise to partner with those who have been abused, with governments, civil agencies and society at large to continue to learn and work towards a safer, more respectful and accountable Church
WE promise to be people of action, to embed prevention and safeguarding practices and governance reforms throughout our Church
WE promise to remember and to be forever changed.
Fr Tom McDonough CP, Provincial of the Passionist Fathers, said his community was moved by the liturgy.
“The theme, ‘Out of the Depths’ captures the experience of Peter and the depth of mercy in the heart of God,” he said.
“Our celebration here at the Passionist community was deeply moving and very beautifully reflective.
“The men and our Passionist sisters were deeply grateful for the opportunity. After the incense we allowed time for anyone to make a personal reflection or expression.”
The Missionary Sisters of Service also shared their commitment to the National Day of Sorrow and Promise.
“We acknowledge survivors of abuse within the Catholic Church and all those who have been hurt by that abuse,” they said on their Facebook page.
“We Missionary Sisters of Service are stirred by sorrow for the failings of the past. We encounter the depth of pain endured within our midst. And we make these promises ... (see above).”
To read a homily from Fr Frank Brennan SJ on the National Day of Sorrow and Promise, click here.