'We're sorry': Anglican churches apologise for abuse

Anglican congregations across Canberra and Goulburn have held special services to apologise for abuse or mistreatment at the hands of the church.

The Lamentation Sunday services were intended to recognise the pain, hurt and sorrow caused by the church's actions and inaction.

They come in the wake of Bishop Stuart Robinson's public apology to victims of abuse by the church, at the Diocese of Canberra and Goulburn synod last September.

His apology was also read out at services on Sunday.

"I wish to convey our deep and genuine sadness in relation to the pain and brokenness that people have experienced as a result of their engagement with our church," Bishop Robinson said.

"We know that hurt and sorrow can last for decades - indeed generations - and so we'd value the opportunity to work with people towards wholeness, forgiveness, reconciliation and restoration."

He hoped the special services might start this work.