For our parish, that we may cultivate welcome, extend hospitality, and encourage the participation of people of all cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds, let us pray to the Lord.
For the courage to have difficult conversations about racism, and for a better appreciation of how our words and actions – or even our silence – can impact our communities, let us pray to the Lord.
For solidarity in our global human family, that we may work together to protect those who are most vulnerable and most in need, let us pray to the Lord.
"We cannot tolerate or turn a blind eye to racism or exclusion in any form and yet claim to defend the sacredness of every human life"
~Pope Francis
Get informed as a Catholic. Many news outlets want to tell you their version of the truth. But as Catholics, we need to know the Church's response to this issue. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) website is a great place to start. Here are some additional resources:
Also, remember in the next election that these issues matter, and vote. Voting is not only a privilege but an obligation.
Here are a few organizations and other ways to offer support locally:
Subcommittee on African-American Affairs - Sr. Thea Bowman’s Address to U.S. Bishops Conference, June 1989.
Sing out with Sr. Thea as she sings Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child at the 7:14 minute mark.
The video is just over 39 minutes.