Hope.
That’s the word that was on everyone’s lips — from the bishop’s homily to speeches outside the church — during a special Mass and dedication ceremony blessing the new healing garden introduced at Our Lady of Refuge Church in Long Beach on Nov. 17.
The Mass and garden were devoted to those who have suffered any kind of abuse, but especially ones that occurred within the Catholic Church.
Auxiliary Bishop Marc Trudeau said that while trauma occurs in the world — including sexual abuse — the goal of everyone’s journey is heaven, and God is there by our side every step of the way, no matter how painful.