KANSAS CITY (MO)
KSHB
Dia Wall
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – One week after his installation, Bishop James Johnston presided over a healing service for those impacted by sexual abuse.
It’s one of six services supported by the Office of Child and Youth Protection.
“I hurt and I’m very sorry and sorrowful for anyone in the church, especially children or vulnerable people who were harmed by those who should have protected them,” Johnston said.
“So I’m especially grieved by those who may have been harmed or were harmed by someone in the church that was given a sacred trust.”
People like William Kopp, who was repeatedly molested by Kansas City priest Tom Reardon as a boy.
“He took away my formidable years of creativity, he took away any chance I had of a normal life, what it does to you, you can’t explain it but you feel guilt and shame,” Kopp said.
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