Bishop Morerod to lead prayer day for victims of sexual abuse

Bishop Charles Morerod will lead a day of prayer for victims of sexual abuse on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, at St-Maurice Church in Fribourg. The 9h gathering is part of a new annual observance established by the Conference of Bishops to coincide with the European Day for the Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Abuse.

The Conference of Bishops has designated November 18 as the permanent date for this yearly day of prayer. The observance follows a request from Pope Francis to remember victims of abuse, particularly within the Church. The Conference of Bishops has provided liturgical texts and prayer intentions to assist parishes, pastoral units, and religious communities in organizing their own prayer services.

The gathering in Fribourg is open to all people regardless of their convictions. The Diocese of Lausanne, Genève et Fribourg noted that the day of prayer is intended as a moment of memory and solidarity that does not replace the search for truth, justice, or necessary measures for prevention and protection.