Artwork generously provided by a Journey to Bethany participant.
In the Parable of the Good Samaritan, we are told that, “moved with compassion” he approached the man who fell into the hands of robbers and “ poured oil and wine over his wounds and bandaged them.” Wine was meant to sanitize and oil to facilitate healing.
When I was ordained a priest almost 33 years ago, I did not know how much of my ministry would involve serving survivors of sexual abuse, including clergy sexual abuse, on so many different levels. I have seen the devastation it can cause in the lives of survivors, their families as well as the deep pain it brings into the lives of communities and all the faithful.
Journey to Bethany serves a resource to help bring healing into the lives of survivors. Our goal of client centered, trauma-informed service strives to address the needs of survivors where they are. Moved by compassion and justice as well, we strive to pour wine and oil over these wounds in an attempt to bring healing into their lives.
Father Joseph Cisetti, Pastor St. Therese Parish & Journey to Bethany board member