The trauma of sexual abuse causes a host of painful effects in the lives of survivors, often continuing for years beyond the incidents of abuse. Lack of attention to their spiritual needs may cause further suffering, says Stevan Wlusek.

The author of From Darkness into Transforming Light: Illumination for the healing journey of sexual abuse survivors from the Carmelite spiritual tradition, he will discuss his book at a launch reception Sunday, April 15, at 3 p.m. in Assumption University’s Freed-Orman Centre.

A Roman Catholic priest, Rev. Wlusek chaired the sexual abuse committee for the diocese of London from 2003 to 2006. He now serves as rector and associate professor of spirituality and pastoral theology at St. Peter’s Seminary in London, Ontario.