Earlier, I posted this proposition from a deacon in Alaska, suggesting that deacons join bishops in public acts of penance. Now, another idea is taking root in the United Kingdom.

From CNS:

The bishops of England and Wales are asking Catholics to carry out acts of penance each Friday in May to help atone for clerical abuse crimes.

In a statement to be read at all parishes April 24-25, the bishops assured Catholics that effective child protection procedures are in place. However, they said, it is “time for deep prayer and reparation for atonement” of the sins of priests and other Catholics who have abused children.

“We invite Catholics in England and Wales to make the four Fridays in May 2010 special days of prayer,” the bishops said in their statement, released April 22.

They recommended visiting the Blessed Sacrament to pray for victims, their abusers and for church leaders who mishandled cases.

You can find out more at the link.