from the archdiocese…
March 29, 2024
The tragedy of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse has created much devastation in the Baltimore community, and the local Church stands ready to accompany our neighbors through their grief and hardship while channeling God’s love through the goodness of the faithful. The agony is profound for those who must cope with the traumatic loss of loved ones. Others with jobs tied to the port face financial pressure from missed work. Crews of a dozen vessels are stranded indefinitely in the Port of Baltimore.
The Archdiocese of Baltimore is on the ground, responding with urgency to needs as they arise.
Redemptorist Father Ako Walker, pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus/Sagrado Corazón de Jesús in Baltimore’s Highlandtown neighborhood – home for the city’s Latino community – has been accompanying families whose fathers and husbands were working on the bridge when disaster struck. In the coming weeks and months, Father Ako will work with trusted partners, such as the Esperanza Center, operated by Catholic Charities, to meet the ongoing needs of the families and others in the city who face job losses. Donate here.
“I am feeling the faith in everything because there are people suffering deeply. … I am here as a presence if anyone needs prayer. I am available to help them.”
– Father Ako Walker, pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus
Meanwhile, this national disaster has thrust into the spotlight the critical ministry of the Apostleship of the Sea. Directed by Andrew Middleton and a team of volunteers, the ministry is a beacon of hope and support for the seafaring community. Before the Dali left port on Monday for the ill-fated trip, the Apostleship of the Sea supported the crew – whose “mayday” signal when the ship lost power is believed to have saved an untold number of lives before the vessel’s impact with the bridge. The ministry will continue to support the crew of the Dali, and all others who are awaiting word on their future departures from the port. Their mission is dedicated to the welfare and spiritual wellbeing of all mariners, regardless of nationality or faith. They give warm welcomes with open arms, providing a range of essential services that address the unique challenges faced by those at sea. Donate here.
“We try to provide any service the crew might need while they are in port. We take them to Mass, take them shopping, provide a place for them to relax. We’re that friendly face they see when they come to the Port of Baltimore. We do everything from provide Catholic religious services to transportation for shopping.”
– Andrew Middleton, director of the Apostleship of the Sea
Sept 29, 2023
Archbishop Lori announced on Friday, 9/29, that the Archdiocese of Baltimore has filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Reorganization. We understand there may be questions surrounding this announcement. Below are some resources that may help in understanding what this means:
Archbishop Lori’s Letter to the Faithful
Most importantly, please join us in praying for the victims of abuse and their families.
4/6/23: Attorney General Report on Clergy Abuse and Archdiocese Response/Commitment/Resources
In response to the recent report from the Maryland Attorney General's office on clergy abuse within the Archdiocese, Archbishop Lori has published a letter entitled "Apology, Healing and Action: The Church's Work to Repair Sacred Trust" which can be read in full here: https://www.archbalt.org/apology-healing-action/
Full text of the AG's report can be located here: https://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov
Please be cautioned that this report might be distressing for some to read.
We share with you some resources that may assist in prayers and family focused guidance:
Child Abuse Prevention Month Prayer Card: http://bit.ly/3zWwseh
Procedures for Disclosures: http://bit.ly/3nUVtDy
Talking with Your Children: http://bit.ly/3KGt3q7
Prayer for Healing: http://bit.ly/3Mmq1IE
Abuse Chart: 1930s-2019: http://bit.ly/3GskZXh
The Archdiocese of Baltimore remains wholly and steadfastly committed to the safety of children and preventing the abuses described in the report from ever occurring again.
Please join the Archdiocese in praying for all the victim/survivors of abuse.
