After priest arrest, grassroots group, church plan healing events

ST. CLOUD (MN)
St. Cloud Times

February 19, 2018

By Stephanie Dickrell

In the #MeToo moment, it’s important to know how to respond when a loved one says “Me too.

Nearly a week after the arrest of a local Catholic priest for sexual misconduct, the community is looking for ways to process the news.

The Rev. Anthony Oelrich faces charges of criminal sexual conduct in the third degree. He is accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with an adult whom he was giving spiritual counsel.

The church has organized events for this week:

– 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, listening session and gathering for permanent members of Christ Church Newman Center in the Terrace room at the center.
– 6 p.m., Wednesday, healing prayer service in the lower church at St. Mary’s Cathedral.
– 6:30 p.m., Thursday, listening session and gathering for student members of Christ Church Newman Center in the Terrace room at the center.

In a Facebook post, the Rev. Scott Pogatchnik, rector of the cathedral, wrote:

“So many are overwhelmed with emotion. For me too, the pain and confusion are so raw that I don’t know where to begin or even that I want to begin. Wherever you are, Jesus invites us: Come to me…I will give you rest.’ Through prayer and scripture, rituals of healing and reflection, you are invited to join us as we begin this long journey of healing together.”

Another group is focusing on the victims of clergy sexual abuse, sexual assault and bullying. The grassroots group of parishioners and friends will gather at the cathedral before the prayer service Wednesday.

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