Members of a senior citizens network in the Archdiocese will present a hand-made healing quilt in support of victims of sexual abuse to the Archdiocesan Office for Child and Youth Protection following a Memorial Mass for its members who have died.

Friday, November 9, 2012
12:45 p.m.
Archdiocesan Pastoral Center (Auditorium)
222 North 17th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103

Members of the network developed the concept of the "healing quilt" and asked volunteers to knit pocket sized prayer squares, each featuring a cross in the center. A total of 63 squares were joined together to form the finished quilt, symbolizing the warm, loving care and spiritual union that comes from prayer. All crafters were asked to pray for healing for victims of clergy sexual abuse.

Ms. Leslie Davila, Director of the Office for Child and Youth Protection, said, "The quilt is a visible symbol that people care and are praying for victims of clergy sexual abuse. I hope to use the quilt to promote the message of healing and caring for all victims. I encourage victims to contact my office if they would like to obtain an individual prayer square."

The senior citizens will continue to knit additional prayer squares, which will be donated to the Office for Child and Youth Protection for them to distribute. Anyone is welcome to join their efforts by crafting prayer squares. Patterns can be obtained online at www.crochetcabana.com/charity/charity-patterns.htm. Victims of clergy sexual abuse who wish to obtain a prayer square should call the Office for Child and Youth Protection at 215-587-3880.

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Contact
Kenneth A. Gavin
Associate Director of Communications
215-587-3747