Cardinal ask parishioners not to lose confidence

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) – A top clergyman faulted in a Pennsylvania grand jury report over his handling of sexually abusive priests is asking parishioners not to lose confidence in the church.

Cardinal Donald Wuerl, one of the highest-profile Roman Catholic cardinals in the United States, spoke Wednesday during Mass at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle in Washington D.C. on the religious feast of the Assumption of Mary.

He said Catholics need to help victims and he asked for Mary’s intervention for those whose confidence is shaken because of the “terrible plague” of abuse.

The report says Wuerl, as Pittsburgh’s bishop, approved transfers for priests who sexually abused children instead of removing and concealed information when priests were reported to law enforcement.

Wuerl made no mention of the allegations, but has previously said he acted diligently to protect children.