In addition to the long-standing work we have been doing in supporting our brother priests since 2020, we have directed our efforts to responding to priests who are in need of support and pastoral assistance as they face difficulties with their dioceses and religious communities. We generally receive these requests when priests call the AUSCP Office (872-205-5862) or contact us via the AUSCP Website (or email: office@auscp.org). At present, the 12 members of the Mutual Support Working Group respond personally to each contact that we receive. Often, we provide a listening ear to the isolation and sometimes desperation of our brothers in ministry. We make referrals to Canonists and Counselors as is appropriate.
Most recently we have written to the Papal Nuncio and to Pope Francis telling them of our work and urging fair treatment of priests who have been accused of inappropriate behavior BUT have not been proven to have committed a crime. Recently the Vatican published a document that was sent to all Bishops informing them that publishing lists of “credibly accused” priests without sufficient proof was not to be done. We are working to raise awareness of this grave injustice to priests’ reputations while affirming the need to protect victims of sexual abuse. We hope to begin publishing articles to this effect in the near future after we have written to the USCCB Leadership and member bishops.
We ask you to think about this: In what other ways can we as priests minister to one another? What is one way you would appreciate support from other priests? Some areas might be: preparing for retirement, living in retirement, finances, support groups, mental health issues, loneliness, or visiting priests who are imprisoned. As a Work Group of just 12 members, we cannot do all the work. We need you! Your energy, your ideas, your voice, your hands and feet, your willingness to get involved are very important. So, if you have an idea, please let us know. If you are willing to work on a project that fosters support for priests in some way, know that we will support you. If you would like to be part of this proactive outreach to priests, please let us know by emailing: office@auscp.org.