Dear Parishioners and Friends of St. Mary’s of the Lake:

In the article for the Church Bulletin Insert this past week, while reflecting on the current clerical sexual abuse crisis in the church, Bishop Ricken wrote: “Sexual abuse of minors is a horrible sin and crime. While we have been working vigorously for many years to be vigilant in these matters and to show loving pastoral care for victims, I am committed to making whatever changes are necessary to help us reform, learn and grow from this experience.” Bishop then listed SEVEN CONCRETE STEPS OF ACTIONS HE WOULD LIKE TO

TAKE TO STRENGTHEN THE ACCOUNTABILITY. For STEP #3 Bishop wrote: “I will listen to your concerns and suggestions. I, and others, will be reaching out through a number of listening sessions throughout the diocese to listen to your

concerns in the next few weeks, including anyone who has been impacted by recent reports and events. I will also read and take to heart letters and other correspondence sent to me.” In order to put what he wrote into action, Bishop has gone around to six locations in six different corners of the Diocese for six Listening Sessions --basically to listen, and to respond to questions (from people in each area). We are asked to put the information below as an announcement and an invitation:

 

LISTENING SESSIONS:

Your thoughts, questions and suggestions regarding the sexual abuse crisis we are currently facing are very important to Bishop Ricken. As part of his action steps for accountability, Bishop would like to invite anyone interested to one of the following listening sessions: 1.- St. Rose Parish, Clintonville

Wednesday, September 19 from 7-8:30 p.m. 2.- St. Mary Parish, Appleton

Thursday, September 20 from 6-7:30 p.m. 3.- Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, De Pere

Tuesday, September 25 from 6-7:30 p.m. 4.- St. Mary’s of the Lake Parish, Lakewood

Wednesday, September 26 from 9-10:30 a.m.

5.- St. Francis and St. Mary Parish, Brussels Thursday, September 27 from 10-11:30 a.m.

6.- St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Newton Thursday, October 4 from 6-7:30 p.m.

As you can see, one of the six Listening Sessions is at our St. Mary’s of the Lake Parish (for our parishioners as well as people in the surrounding areas). May I ask you to make an effort to go to this Session (in Lakewood) on WED Sept 26 beginning at 9 am. If you are unable to attend one of the sessions above, but would like to speak with someone, please call Mr. Ted Phernetton at 920-272-8226. Ted is the director of the CATHOLIC CHARITIES OFFICE of our Diocese.

Fr. Philip