Parishioners react to defrocking of former Archbishop of Washington Theodore McCarrick

WASHINGTON (FOX 5 DC) - Parishioners across the D.C. metropolitan area are reacting to the removal of former Archbishop of Washington Theodore McCarrick.

On Saturday, FOX 5 went to the Basilica of the National Shrine of Immaculate Conception in Northeast D.C. to speak to parishioners regarding McCarrick's removal.

A lot of people we spoke to said they were disappointed to hear the outcome for the former cardinal, but they also said that they were happy these incidents are finally getting dealt with.

"It's good to see action being taken for it because it's something that shouldn't be taken lightly. It should be taken serious. And we just need to show people what we believe and what we stand for," said Keeyan Zimmerman.

"I'm not going to leave the church just for one person who's doing a, you know, that kind of act. So with me, like, I am going to be faithful to the church and we'll pray of course," said Fatima Ballestros.

The Archdiocese of Washington released a statement regarding McCarrick's removal. It says in part:

"Our hope and prayer is that this decision serves to help the healing process for survivors of abuse, as well as those who have experienced disappointment or disillusionment because of what former Archbishop McCarrick has done. We also pray that the Church may be guided to move forward in her mission."