Bishop Burbidge, USCCB respond to
death of Cardinal Bernard Law

Bishop Burbidge’s statement on the death of Cardinal Law

With my brother bishops, I pray for the repose of the soul of Cardinal Bernard Law and for his friends and family in mourning. May he rest in the peace of Our Lord.

It is also appropriate at this time to remember those who have suffered the unconscionable crime of sexual abuse. Their stories have appropriately humbled the Church and brought about considerable change to policies and procedures intended to protect the young and the vulnerable. I am proud to be part of a diocese that has compassionately extended pastoral care to victims. We also have been, and remain, committed to providing a thorough program that screens staff and clergy, conducts background checks, and works to ensure accusations are taken seriously and addressed immediately. Our policies and procedures will be continuously strengthened out of respect for those who were left unaided and not given the protection they deserved. 

Statement from the USCCB

WASHINGTON—Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo, archbishop of Galveston-Houston and president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops issued the following statement this morning upon the death of Cardinal Bernard Law. If you have been abused or know of someone who has been abused, contact the local diocesan victims assistance coordinator and, where you may have knowledge of a crime, local law enforcement. As we reflect on the legacy of Cardinal Law, it will likely bring back painful memories for survivors. The Church seeks to always respond as supportive pastors.

“Entrusting his soul to the mercy of Christ, I echo the statement released by Cardinal Seán O’Malley, the Archbishop of Boston and offer my prayers and condolences to the family and friends of Cardinal Law. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord.  At this time especially we keep close in our prayer the brave survivors of sexual abuse.  Their witness would lead to a comprehensive response from the Church in the United States to protect and heal the deep wounds of abuse. I pray they may find strength and peace in the mercy of Christ.”