Group creates Healing Garden at parish

WISCONSIN
Kenosha News

BY JILL TATGE-ROZELL
jrozell@kenoshanews.com

The Healing Garden at Holy Family Parish in Chicago is a place where victims of clergy abuse can go to feel free from fear, shame and judgment.

“We want it to be a place where people will find compassion, comfort and healing,” Donna Polencheck, a member of the planning committee, said.

Polencheck, of Twin Lakes, is one of four victim-survivors who were asked by the Archdiocese of Chicago to help make the garden, dedicated on June 9, 2011, a reality. The committee also included two diocesan priests and staff from the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth.

“Being able to serve on the Healing Garden Committee has been a tremendous catalyst in my growth,” Polencheck said. “I can now manage my anger and overwhelming fears.”

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