Father Richard Gill LC, director of Regnum Christi in New York, follows Father Thomas Berg LC's example in issuing an unqualified apology to those affected by the recent revelations about the Legion of Christ's founder, Father Marcial Maciel.
Like Father Berg, Father Gill also apologizes explicitly for the Legion's actions in defending its founder while accusations piled up over the years, offering "prayers and sacrifices for anyone who was victimized, so they may continue to heal and discover the love of Jesus Christ."
Be sure to read canon lawyer Ed Peters' commentary on Father Berg's and Father Gill's statements. While he applauds their being "willing to step forward, even while their leadership dithers day after day," he writes that there remain serious issues in need of address.
In related news, Jay Dunlap, who directed the Legion's public-relations response to the accusations against Maciel, has also issued a plea for forgiveness for his "personal failings in this horrid series of events. American Papist's Thomas Peters (son of Ed)" notes that it is a good apology, but, as with other statements from people connected with the Legion, raises questions about the timeline of events.
If you or anyone you know is suffering in the wake of the current crisis, diocesan priests and religious are making themselves available for pastoral care. See the list of pastoral-care resources on www.regainnetwork.org.
Comments closed. Please pray for the Holy Father, for all current and former members of the Legion of Christi and Regnum Christi, and for the healing of Christ's Mystical Body.
