We’re here today with a tribute, a reminder, and a plea.

Our tribute today is to the brave, compassionate and determined victims and Catholics, whose actions helped force Law out but more importantly, helped launch a revolution that ultimately saved countless lives, prevented countless crimes, and helped countless other victims.

Our reminder today is that Cardinal Law is not atypical. His crimes and cover ups have been more well documented than those of his colleagues. But the same crimes and cover ups are found in virtually every diocese in the US and are being concealed by virtually every bishop in the US.

Our plea today is for continued courage and vigilance.

Courage is crucial because when victims and witnesses stay silent, nothing changes. But when victims and witnesses find the courage to speak up, there’s at least a chance that lives will be spared, crimes will be prevented, and wounds will be healed.

Vigilance is crucial because without it, church officials will backslide even further and faster.