A Different Kind of Bishop

Ibid. (approx. 2008). A brief snapshot of a bishop’s presence in a survivor’s early exploration of a deeper commitment to faith.

When Most Reverend Paul S. Loverde, Bishop of Arlington, VA, entered the nondescript meeting room, he arrived unnoticed among the small circles of people quietly gathered there. These are survivors of abuse by clergy. Their families and friends attend to lend support – and to seek their own comfort.

One survivor, from a different faith, admits his abusers were not clergy but, choking back tears, offers me an explanation for why he came, “No one has ever prayed for me to heal before.” These gatherings have been occurring in the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia, since June 2004. Parish bulletins make announcements. Invitations are published in papers. Posters hang on cellar walls outside 12 Step recovery meetings. A website lists events, shares stories of other victims, posts heart-felt letters from the bishop and Mrs. Patricia Mudd, the Victims’ Assistance Coordinator. The message is consistent: If you have been abused by a priest anywhere but are here, now, you are entrusted to Loverde, who seeks to care for you.

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