FAIRFIELD—Father Ray Petrucci and Dorothy Riera, co-hosts of the radio program “Thoughts for the Week” recently sat down with Diocesan Safe Environments leader Erin Neil and sexual abuse survivors to discuss healing from clerical sexual abuse.
The program was recorded at Sacred Heart University radio studios and will air twice in August and twice in October on August 6 and August 20 and October 1 and October 22 on stations throughout the state.
Peggy Fry and Jim Divasto, two victims of sexual abuse by clergy from the Diocese of Bridgeport, openly discuss their personal stories and their healing journey as a way to reach others and encourage survivors to come forward for help.
“It was an honor and an emotional experience to do those shows and I hope that our efforts will bear good fruit on behalf of the victims,” said Fr. Ray Petrucci, a priest of the diocese of Bridgeport who has a long career in radio ministry.
During the program, the group discussed the upcoming Mass of Hope and Healing set for Sunday, October 29, 2 pm at St. Anthony Parish in Fairfield.
“The Mass in an important way to help bring people together to promote healing within our Diocese from the terrible wound of child sexual abuse,” said Erin Neil.
Erin Neil, Director of Safe Environment and Victim Assistance Coordinator, also shares some updates on our child safety programs and trainings across the Diocese of Bridgeport.
Thoughts for the Week is aired on Sundays on WVOX 1460AM at 6:00am; WJMJ 88.9FM (Hartford) at 9:30am; 93.1FM (Hamden) at 9:30am; 107.1FM (New Haven) at 9:30am
For information about the service or to speak with someone about sexual abuse or other forms of abuse as a minor by a person from the Church, please call Erin Neil, L.C.S.W., Director of Safe Environment & Victim Assistance Coordinator 203.650.3265 or Michael Tintrup, L.C.S.W., Victim Assistance Counselor 203.241.0987.
To report a new incident of suspected or known abuse of a minor, please immediately notify the police or the CT Department of Children and Family Services 1.800.842.2288.
