Night has fallen in Buffalo. This historic day is done.
At Masses tomorrow, we will not publicly pray for “our bishop Richard” since he no longer bears that title.
At the cathedral, his former seat or “cathedra” is draped to cover his episcopal coat of arms.
At the Catholic Center, a new boss has arrived.
At the heart of it all, for me, is the survivors and Jesus.
Thank you, my survivor friends and allies, for your courage, which inspired so many to join you in your fight for truth and justice. So many of the laity of our diocese are informed and engaged because of your witness. Today’s resignation proves that truth cannot be forever hidden in vacuum closets. Not when heroic survivors continue to speak and live that truth!
Thank you, dear Lord, for being with us through all the highs and lows, the twists and turns, the tears and fears. We know there is still much to be done, accountability to demand, changes to be made and vigilance to be kept.
But for now, we rest. It is not a time for rejoicing, but for relief that this first, necessary step has been taken.
May the Lord’s peace be with us all.
Proclaim the Truth 