Catholic Primate of Ireland Apologises to Victims and Abuse Survivors

By Ailbhe Conneely
RTE
February 19, 2021

https://www.rte.ie/news/2021/0219/1198122-day-of-prayer-catholic-church/

Eamon Martin said sorry for 'the terrible failures and crimes' that happened in the Church

The Catholic Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland has apologised for the harm that has been done to victims and survivors of abuse.

In a video message Archbishop Eamon Martin said there is a need for the survivors to hear that Catholic Church leaders realise the harm that has been done to them.

Marking the annual Day of Prayer for Victims and Survivors of Abuse, he said sorry for "the terrible failures and crimes" that happened in their Church.

"I want to do my best to ensure that no one else suffers in the way that you did", he has said.

The Day of Prayer is an initiative by Pope Francis and was first marked in Irish dioceses and parishes in 2017.

The bishops of Ireland have blessed and dedicated Candles of Atonement for use in cathedrals and parishes throughout the country on the Day of Prayer, symbolising repentance.