PORTLAND — Bishop Robert P. Deeley has designated Friday, March 3, as a diocesan-wide Day of Prayer and Penance to seek forgiveness for past harm while offering prayers for the healing of victims and survivors of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church.

The day will also reaffirm the Diocese of Portland’s continuing pledge to provide a safe environment for children.

Priests throughout the diocese are being encouraged to observe the Day of Prayer and Penance by offering Masses on March 3 that include prayers for the following:

• Victims/survivors of abuse for their healing;

• Perpetrators of abuse to seek and find repentance and justice;

• Diocesan clergy, employees and volunteers to serve with a spirit of respect and humility; and

• Families to create a safe, loving and peaceful environment for their children.

Bishop Deeley encourages anyone who may have information about any case of sexual abuse of a minor by a Church representative to contact civil authorities and Michael Magalski, director of the Office of Professional Responsibility for the Diocese of Portland, at 207-321-7836 or at michael.magalski@portlanddiocese.org.