Our Mission
Good Tidings was founded in 1983 to give support to women and priests who were involved in romantic relationships.
Since its inception some 1,500 persons have contacted us. Some of them merely request information; many more share that they are involved in a clandestine relationship. Most who contact Good Tidings are Roman Catholic. The mandatory nature of celibacy for the Roman Catholic priesthood is an essential element of this issue. This aspect is addressed by several ministries and Church reform groups.
The conflict is not usually one of Faith. We encourage a spiritual resolution to their problem, as well as a psychological and emotional one. Sometimes we feel it necessary to encourage a victimized woman to seek legal redress (for child support, for example) when justice is not possible within her Church.
Clerical sexual misconduct or abuse
Clerical sexual misconduct or abuse is a grave concern of Good Tidings, but not the entire focus of this ministry. This ministry is intended to help individuals reach some solution to the difficulties they face in their relationships which may include guilt, confusion, loneliness, isolation or pain.
We intend to help priests and the women they love to discern before God what their relationship is and should be. This may be a celibate or marital relationship. In speaking to such persons we insist on honesty and integrity, before God and before each other. We usually suggest counseling, and try to put them in touch with professional counselors and experienced spiritual directors. If desired, we also put them in contact with persons who can provide peer support.
