Shocked: Relative just disclosed he was abused by a priest...

[CoffeeCat]

I'm beside myself because I never expected the priest-abuse scandal to hit right in my own family.

A relative, today, disclosed that a priest sexually abused him repeatedly when he attended Catholic school. The abuse began when he was barely out of elementary school.

The relative disclosed today, because a local newspaper ran an article about a lawsuit he filed against the diocese. Two others filed lawsuits as well. It was surreal reading an article about a realtive.

This relative kept the abuse to himself for nearly 45 years. He didn't tell anyone. Not even his wife.

He decided to come forward and file a suit, after another victim reported abuse by the same priest. Until he found out that another had been a victim of this priest--he blamed himself for the abuse and he believed he was the only victim.

My relative received a phone call today, from a priest in the school. He said, "I tried and I tried to do something about this priest. I knew it was happening. We turned him in and nothing was done. I didn't know this happened to you and I'm so sorry."

I think it's a good day for my relative. He broke the silence. He's also receiving validation and support from many.

I've heard so many of these stories, and I've always felt for the victims (I'm a victim of sexual abuse too; not by a priest). However, I never fully felt the impact of this national story until a family member disclosed.

I just wanted to share.

[wryter2000]

1. Oh, my

Good for that priest who called him. You're right, that is validation.

Your relative's going to need your support now. Let us know how it goes.

[NMDemDist2]

2. ....

:hug: