Sexual abuse by religious...
...its impact on victims, their families and friends
was the title of a program presented by the Goal 1 committee recently[November 2005]. The program was perhaps a first as it included a panel of a victim/survivor, his wife and two daughters and his parents. They addressed the dysfunction in the family caused by the abuse, the repression over a long time and the healing and recovery they are now experiencing.The featured speaker was Gary Schoener, licensed psychologist and executive director of Walk - in Counselling Center located in Minneapolis. Schoener has a world wide reputation for his involvement in cases involving abuse by clergy and others in religious roles. He has been an expert witness in many cases involving clergy of virtually all denominations and religious orders.
Space for the event was made available by the church of St. Patrick, Edina
What was the audience response? Powerful !!! Very moving !!! The question and answer session Schoener conducted with the survivor and his family was most enlightning !!!! Best program ever.