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Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley, a significant figure in the Catholic Church, retired as the archbishop of Boston after turning 80 in June. His retirement was accepted by Pope Francis on August 5. Cardinal O’Malley, ordained as a priest in the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin in 1970, has played a vital role in addressing the clergy sexual abuse crisis and overseeing reforms.
Throughout his 40-year tenure as a diocesan bishop, Cardinal O’Malley managed several dioceses affected by this scandal and contributed globally since his appointment as founding president of the Holy See’s Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors in 2014. With Archbishop Richard G. Henning now appointed to Boston, Cardinal O’Malley is relieved from daily diocesan governance but continues to serve on the Council of Cardinals and lead the pontifical commission until a successor is named.
In an interview with OSV News during the U.S. bishops' November plenary meeting in Baltimore, Cardinal O'Malley reflected on his career and contributions. He expressed gratitude for his time serving Boston: "Well, I just hope that they will remember that I love them and I’m grateful for all of their help and patience with me and their prayers."
Discussing his experience dealing with clergy sexual abuse issues, he stated: "As difficult as it was very early on, I realized that the church’s mission is to make present the merciful face of God." He acknowledged media's role in forcing action but noted: "Unfortunately, they did not contextualize the problem for people."
Reflecting on his faith during challenging times, he credited support from others: "There were so many people who stayed with us, and that was a great source of strength to me."
Cardinal O'Malley also shared insights from working closely with Pope Francis: "I’m old enough now...to have lived with many different popes... But we’re very grateful for his commitment to safeguarding."
His Franciscan charism influenced his approach: "We are called to be universal brothers... The church must continue that same Gospel." Addressing current crises within the church, he emphasized finding saints among ordinary people: "It’s like that wonderful dialogue where we’d say to God...'Will you spare the city if there’s 10 honest people?'"
Cardinal O'Malley's work extended beyond Boston; he served Hispanic communities extensively during his priesthood. He remarked on immigrant influence within churches today: "The immigrant populations are transforming the church."
Regarding safeguarding efforts through leading commissions at high levels globally alongside extraordinary volunteers committed towards creating safe environments within churches worldwide - especially focusing upon regions lacking programs -he stated importance hearing victims' stories firsthand among bishops saying “If we had been able hear about safeguarding…history would be different today.”
Reflecting over challenges faced throughout decades-long service spanning multiple roles including ordaining numerous priests across locations while maintaining Capuchin friar identity brings joy despite anticipating busy retirement ahead given health permits continued involvement wherever possible.
Michael R. Heinlein contributed this report for OSV News.
