“God, you are the rock where I take refuge; my shield, my mighty help, my stronghold.” – Psalm 17 (18):2
The Benedictine New Norcia Parish in Western Australia marked the National Day of Sorrow and Promise with the blessing of the newly installed ‘Rock of Remembrance’ – an interactive memorial in honour of those who experienced any form of neglect or abuse, The Record reports..
The blessing of the memorial at New Norcia, WA. (PHOTO: The Record/Photo supplied)
Situated next to the Abbey Church, the memorial serves as a permanent acknowledgement and apology, in the hope that it will contribute to a sense of healing and reconciliation.
“This ‘Rock of Remembrance’ is a memorial to people who have experienced neglect and abuse,” Abbott John Herbert said during the blessing.
“Unearthed from this ancient land, it represents the steadfast love of God who created all things and holds them in being. Laid out in the form of a cross, symbolising the cross of Christ, it represents the hope of new life beyond pain and suffering.
“The Benedictine Community of New Norcia has installed this memorial in acknowledgement of and sincere apology for the physical, emotional and sexual abuse suffered in this place.
“You are invited to spend a moment in silent thought and prayer, and to take a pebble adding it to the memorial as an expression of your support for these people, that God will grant them peace of mind and heart.”
The blessing coincided with the Catholic Religious of Australia annual ‘National Day of Sorrow and Promise’, and the annual reunion of the New Norcia Aboriginal Corporation.
The Benedictine Community of New Norcia says it continues to work tirelessly to do everything it possibly can to ensure a safe environment for all those who engage with the site.
This article was published in The Record, the publication of the Archdiocese of Perth.
The ‘Rock of Remembrance’ is a memorial to those who have suffered abuse or neglect. (PHOTO: The Record/Photo supplied)