UCA News
Contribute

Japanese bishops pray for victims of sexual abuse

Second Friday in Lent set as a Day of Prayer and Penance for Victims of Sexual Abuses
Japanese bishops pray for victims of sexual abuse

Japan's bishops celebrated a Mass in Tokyo for the victims of sexual abuse committed by priests. (Photo supplied)

Published: February 28, 2017 03:15 AM GMT
Updated: February 28, 2017 03:21 AM GMT

Japan's bishops have set the second Friday in Lent as a Day of Prayer and Penance for the Victims of Sexual Abuses, and celebrated a Mass for the victims on Feb. 21.

During the Mass, Archbishop Mitsuaki Takami of Nagasaki, president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Japan (CBCJ), prayed, "Our God full of Grace … forgive the sin of sexual abuse by the church's priests."

"May the church accept the sadness and pain of the victims and their families. May it walk with them and become a home of comfort in which they can find Christ and healing," the archbishop continued.

Archbishop Takami was the main celebrant at the Mass that was attended by 15 bishops who held their plenary assembly in Tokyo Feb. 20-22.

Responding to a call by Pope Francis, the CBCJ last October set the Day of Prayer and Penance for the Victims of Sexual Abuses on the second Friday of Lent, and decided to celebrate the Mass with the intention of healing and penance for the victims of sexual abuse.

On Dec. 14, 2016, the CBCJ also issued a message that explained the basis and motive of setting the day.

Help UCA News to be independent
Dear reader,
Lent is the season during which catechumens make their final preparations to be welcomed into the Church.
Each year during Lent, UCA News presents the stories of people who will join the Church in proclaiming that Jesus Christ is their Lord. The stories of how women and men who will be baptized came to believe in Christ are inspirations for all of us as we prepare to celebrate the Church's chief feast.
Help us with your donations to bring such stories of faith that make a difference in the Church and society.
A small contribution of US$5 will support us continue our mission…
William J. Grimm
Publisher
UCA News
Asian Bishops
Latest News
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia