By Edwina Hyland, Co-Director of Diocesan Family Life Office

Have any of you ever listened to a person talk about the fear and shame that they have lived with everyday of their life? If this person chooses to share his or her pain with you, please listen with empathy! It may be the first they felt they could trust someone enough to understand. Please, don’t let them down!

This abuse can be used to make a young child wonder why they were never good enough. An older child fears being beaten, locked in a closet for hours or actually sexually abused. They are told they had better not ever tell anyone what is happening to them. These children go to school each day many times with whelps all over their body. They sit in the classroom but they usually don’t respond. Their eyes are usually cast downward so that other children will not notice them. They will have a difficult time concentrating on their school work...their fears are just beneath the surface.

In the book of Matthew, the children were taught a different message. Matthew 12:13-15: "The children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray: The disciples rebuked them, but Jesus said, "Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." After he placed his hands on them, he went away.

How can children learn to love themselves when all they have seen and heard is punishment? After these children grow into their teens, they are sometimes more promiscuous or often more apt to drink or do drugs. Their thoughts usually bring silly laughter just to get attention. These young adults go for many years always feeling that they can never measure up in society's eyes.

Many teenagers, I think, would love to have a mentor to show them how to become a good student and start on their way to a successful life--rich in valuable friendships and work.

From "Act Justly, Love Tenderly, Walk Humbly," Edward F. Gabriele offers us this prayer: "God of love, the poor and lonely wander our streets, afraid and angry at their tremendous want. This night we pray: never permit us to forget their need; never let us turn our back on people in need of human compassion and care. As we pray for the gift of compassion in our life, we offer these special needs...for all who have been abused or neglected. Amen."

DATE: Friday, April 19, 2002 at 7:00 PM, Holy Name of Jesus Parish, 511 Second St., Henderson, KY 42420, 270.826.2096

The Diocese of Owensboro will sponsor a Prayer Service of Healing for victims and survivors of sexual abuse as well as anyone interested in helping a friend or spouse work through their pain. This ecumenical service is open to all members of the community. Both Owensboro and Henderson as well as guests from any ohter community are welcome to join. In addition to providing a prayer service, counselors will be available after the service if anyone feels the need.

For Information: Call Family Office/or Social Concerns, Diocese of Owensboro

Edwina Hyland or Rita Brothers, 270. 683.1545 ext. 143, or ext. 121

Sandy Moore, 270.869.9467, or Stella McClure 270.259.4823