PATRON OF PARISH PRIESTS

                One of the great shepherds of the Catholic Church was St. John Vianney, an early nineteenth-century priest in the small French town of Ars. He had failed Latin and so was almost not ordained. But a priest took pity on him. He became known as the Curé (parish priest) of Ars. He spent hours listening to confessions made by people from all over the region. He taught and brought the sacraments to the people.

                His reputation for holiness spread throughout France. He became the patron saint of priests and of pastors especially those who work in parishes. His feast day is August 4th celebrated this weekend.

                Over the course of the last several months we have witnessed the painful reality of the human condition that has infected some of our diocesan priests. The allegations of abuse of minors by a few of our priests has tarnished the reputation of the priesthood.

                It is most important to remember that St. John Vianney truly believed in repentance, forgiveness and reconciliation. This is what the Church has strived to accomplish in the life of its priests and all of its members.

                St. John Vianney was an example of holiness for all to follow. We continue to pray for the victims of abuse of any kind. We continue to pray for healing and a just resolution to all for all who have suffered because of such sin.

                Anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse by a priest or religious is encouraged to contact the Victim Assistance Coordinator for the Diocese of Buffalo, Ms. Jacqueline Joy at 716-895-3010 (jacqueline.joy@ccwny.org) and the Diocese for assistance.