Clergy from the National Church of Iceland, meeting with victims of sexual abuse at the hands of former bishop Ólafur Skúlason, expressed regret and asked for forgiveness.
Dozens of priests met with three of the women yesterday afternoon. Listening to their stories of what they endured, Vísir reports that some priests burst into tears, and others begged for forgiveness.
“This was a valuable experience and I thank these women utterly for tolerating talking to us,” said Reverend Sigríður Guðmarsdóttir in part. “I think we all learned something today and I am very grateful for that.”
The meeting, which took place at the church Vídalínskirkja in Garðabær, had the women speak from the altar, while priests sat in the pews. Many of the priests in attendance, Reverend Sigríður said, asked the women for forgiveness at the conclusion of the meeting.