Praying for those who have suffered abuse

The annual Day of Prayer for those who have suffered abuse is observed in Scotland today (Friday 7 March).

The day offers Catholic communities and parishes the chance to pray for the healing of all those who have suffered abuse in the Church and elsewhere.

Resources are available here so that parishes can support the provision of specific prayers and liturgies in churches and faith communities across Scotland.

The Scottish Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency said: "We are grateful for the valuable contributions of some survivors of abuse towards the development of this resource."

Day of Prayer for abused

Each year the Catholic Church in Scotland sets aside a day to pray for those who have suffered any form of abuse.

It takes place in the Church's calendar on the first  Friday following Ash Wednesday (4 March).

Archbishop Cushley said: “The Church is keenly aware of the pain and suffering caused by those who have experienced abuse. I’m encouraging parishes in the Archdiocese to host a service on 4 March using the liturgical resource provided by the Bishops' Conference where we can acknowledge the hurt caused and pray for healing in the lives of those affected.”

Pray

A liturgical resource is provided by the Bishops' Conference to encourage prayers in Churches and home. Click here. Safeguarding resources from BCOS can be found at bcos.org.uk/Safeguarding