Service of Hope and Healing held at Westminster Cathedral

Messages on the LOUDfence

Source: Archbishops House

On Saturday, 10th May, Bishop James Curry led a Service of Hope and Healing at Westminster Cathedral for those impacted by abuse, as well as those who work with or support them. This solemn gathering provided an opportunity for the Diocese of Westminster to express sorrow for the abuse suffered by so many at the hands of clergy and others associated with the Church.

Cardinal Vincent, who had been due to attend but was instead called to Rome for the conclave, sent a message that was read aloud to those present. In it, he wrote:

'When this horrific abuse takes place in the very house of the Lord, and when it is hidden instead of disclosed, then the pain suffered is so much more destructive, for it undermines the faith and trust in God of those who have been betrayed.

'This deep suffering and pain which you, victims and survivors, have suffered moves me to express again my distress and sorrow at what has happened and, in the name of the Church, to apologise to you all.'

Readthe Cardinal's letter in full HERE

During the service, organised with the support of the healing and reconciliation movement LOUDfence, Catherine Edginton, Head of Safeguarding for the Diocese of Westminster, read a litany of hope and trust. It called for the Lord to walk with those who suffer, have lost hope, or live in despair.

Candles were lit from a central Candle of Hope and shared with everyone in the congregation. These candles symbolised both an acknowledgement of the deep trauma and pain caused, and a commitment to making the Church a place that brings light into the darkest places where abuse has caused such suffering.

After the service, attendees were invited to the Chapel of St Joseph and the Holy Family to tie a ribbon on the diocesan LOUDfence or write a personal message of support or prayer for those harmed by abuse. This simple act stands in solidarity with survivors and demonstrates our collective commitment to ending abuse and ensuring that all parishes are safe spaces for everyone.

The Diocese of Westminster Safeguarding Service can be contacted on 0207 798 9352

To report a past/present concern email safeguardingadmin@rcdow.org.uk
For safer recruitment or DBS queries contact dbsadmin@rcdow.org.uk
For PSR support and queries contact safeguardingsupport@rcdow.org.uk
For training or general enquiries contact safeguardingadmin@rcdow.org.uk

To improve the diocesan safeguarding offer and ensure we're meeting the needs of those who approach us in the most supportive way, we welcome feedback from those who have been impacted by abuse who have used our Safeguarding Service. Please complete this short survey here.