Prayer is a central, important part of the healing process for victims/survivors and for the whole community of believers. Moreover, public prayer is an important way of raising consciousness in the Church. Many victims/survivors have often expressed a desire for prayer as an important element in their healing process. The first Friday after Ash Wednesday has been nominated by the NZCBC as the day of Prayer and Penance for victims of abuse and violence.

Below are two examples of prayers with which you can join in this universal initiative. Published by the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors.

SIMPLE PRAYER 1 FOR THE VICTIMS AND SURVIVORS OF SEXUAL ABUSE

Father,
Since your mercy has been revealed
In the tenderness of your Son Jesus Christ,
who said to his disciples:
“Suffer the little children to come unto me”,
we pray that your Church may be a secure home
where all children and vulnerable adults are brought closer to your Beloved Son.
May all those who have been abused
physically, emotionally and sexually by your ministers,
be respected and accompanied by
tangible gestures of justice and reparation so that
they may feel healed with the balm of your compassion.
Through Jesus Christ, our Lord
Amen.

SIMPLE PRAYER 2 FOR THE VICTIMS AND SURVIVORS OF SEXUAL ABUSE

Heavenly Father,
who loves and cares for all of your children,
especially the smallest and most vulnerable,
we entrust to you the lives of the many children and vulnerable adults,
who have been sexually abused,
and whose trust and innocence have been destroyed.
Help us to hear their cries of pain and to take responsibility for so many broken lives.
We pray that within their communities and families
they may find understanding and support
so that with the help of your grace
their wounds may be healed,
and they may again know peace.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who shared our weakness in all things but sin,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit
God forever and ever.
Amen.

The following prayer has been prepared by the Diocese of Northampton.

PRAYER FOR HEALING AND RECONCILIATION

Praise to you Father of our Lord Jesus Christ
the source of all consolation and hope.
Be the refuge and guardian of all
who suffer from abuse and violence.
Comfort them and send healing
for their wounds of the body, soul and spirit.
Help us all and make us one with you
in your love for justice
as we deepen our respect for the dignity of every human life.
Giver of peace, make us one in celebrating
your praise, both now and forever.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

READINGS FOR THE MASS OF THE DAY

First Reading Isaiah 58:1-9

Psalm 50:3-6,18-19 A broken humbled heart, O God, you will not scorn.

Gospel Acclamation

Glory and praise to you O Jesus Christ!
Seek good and not evil so that you may live, and the Lord will be with you.
Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ!

Gospel Matthew 9:14-15

SUGGESTIONS FOR PRAYER OF INTERCESSION

For all survivors of sexual abuse; may they come to know, once again, the compassionate love of God and find healing and hope in the risen Lord.
Response: E Te Ariki, whakarongo mai ra ki a matou

For women and young people who are victims of violence, that they may be protected by society and have their sufferings considered and heeded by all.
Response: E Te Ariki, whakarongo mai ra ki a matou

HYMN SUGGESTION

Make me a Channel of your Peace.

Material provided by the NZCBC