Forgiveness sought during special Mass

Stacy J. Willis

Thursday, Aug. 15, 2002 | 9:01 a.m.

In a turnabout of traditional confession, the Catholic Church asked parishioners for forgiveness Wednesday at a special Mass for victims of abuse by priests.

After a season of worldwide scandal in the faith, Las Vegas Bishop Joseph Pepe offered Las Vegas Catholics a "Mass of Healing" and a "Holy Hour for Healing for the Victims of Sexual Abuse by Clergy" at Guardian Angel Cathedral near the Strip.

Pepe and priests from parishes diocese-wide gathered in front of the nearly filled church and led services focused on "reuniting a divided church."

"God Our Father, we have wandered far from you," Pepe told the congregation. "We celebrate the reconciliation."

Last spring the Rev. Mark Roberts, a Henderson priest, was charged with sexually abusing boys in his care, adding to a long list of abuse charges against priests nationwide.

In the cathedral lobby, a sign calling for protecting Catholic children was posted by diocese officials.

The "Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People," issued by the U.S. Catholic Conference, said the conference "expresses sorrow for past acts" and "vows to protect children."

In the Holy Hour services, ritual litanies carried a similar theme -- parishioners and priests spoke the words in unison: "For children afraid of their abusers, save, heal and protect them, oh Lord ...

"For children whose innocence has been stolen, save heal and protect them, oh Lord."

After services, several members of the congregation said they thought the Mass was useful in healing the church.

"I think it was important for us to make sure we are united and heal the church as a family," Jennifer Coswick, a parishioner, said.

Thomas Nichols, another parishioner, said the service doesn't make up for any abuses, but he appreciated the attempt.

"At least they are trying," he said.