Bishop Robert Barron wrote a "Letter to a Suffering Church". He pledged that the proceeds from the book would go to help people affected by sexual abuse and exploitation. Word on Fire chose the Maria Goretti Network as a charity to support with some of these funds.
MGN is very grateful to Bishop Barron for his generosity, but even more appreciative of his willingness to speak out clearly to the tragic reality of sexual abuse. We wish more leaders would be as clear in confronting the evil of abuse.
The Maria Goretti Network reaches out to all those affected by abuse, to survivors and victims, their families and those who support our recovery, with God's love as witnessed in the life of Maria Goretti. This web site is for information only and should not be construed as mental health or legal advice. Contact legal or mental health professionals if you are in need of professional advice and assistance. While mgoretti.org provides links to other websites, this does not constitute an endorsement of the links provided nor the content of these links. We do not monitor linked web sites.
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Archbishop Emeritus of Galveston-Houston, Joseph Fiorenza was a tremendous help to me twenty years ago when I first started ministering to victims of abuse. Those efforts led to the creation of the Maria Goretti Network/MGN. We are grateful!.........................Miguel Prats Mgr MGN
The Maria Goretti Network is an organization that addresses the needs of those who are victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence, or other forms of violence.
It is based on the experience of the founder, Miguel Prats, a survivor of clergy abuse, and his search for spiritual, emotional, and mental wholeness after the abuse he suffered.
To assist the healing process, he appealed to St. Maria Goretti, a young girl who was sexually abused by a neighbor. Before Maria died, she forgave the man who abused her. Maria Goretti’s example of forgiveness in a very tragic situation motivated Miguel to discover in forgiveness the healing he desired.
The Maria Goretti Network and its ability to foster healing for victims of all types of abuse are fundamentally based on the gospel message of forgiveness. It is an organization that is structured to promote healing without lessening the harm done to victims or the grave immorality of those who perpetrate any form of abuse on others.
Arising from the teaching of forgiveness proclaimed by Jesus, MGN is suited for a parish organization or for several parishes located near each other. The victims of violence of all types will find the support needed to recover in an atmosphere of understanding and compassion.
The Maria Goretti Network/MGN has offered parishes a wonderful means of healing for victims. It is my hope that MGN will become as well-known as other organizations that assist victims.
Most Reverend Joseph A. Fiorenza
Archbishop Emeritus of Galveston-