Friday, September 9, 2016
In the wake of the racial tensions and tragic moments within some of our communities in the past months, Archbishop Kurtz, President of the USCCB, has called for a National Day of Prayer on Friday, September 9, the feast of St. Peter Claver. It is hoped that this day of prayer will inspire hope and encourage the faithful to take concrete steps toward peace and healing. It is also hoped that our prayers will lead to open, honest, and civil dialogue in communities struggling with violence.
The USCCB has provided the following information and resources to help with local planning:
Prayer of the Faithful:
http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/racism/prayer-of-the-faithful-day-of-prayer-for-peace-in-our-communities.cfm
5 Ways to Celebrate Sept. 9 Day of Prayer for Peace in Our Communities:
https://togoforth.org/2016/08/18/5-ways-you-can-cultivate-peace-and-work-for-racial-justice/
Ideas for Promoting Peace and Working for Racial Justice:
http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/racism/index.cfm#communities
The links below provide additional background information on the Day of Prayer and on the task force created by the U.S. bishops to promote peace and unity:
http://www.usccb.org/news/2016/16-095.cfm
http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/atlanta-archbishop-on-racial-reconciliation-everyone-has-a-role-to-play/
Additionally, the USCCB invites you to participate in the Sept. 14 Google hangout on racial justice. They will facilitate a conversation between representatives from three Catholic faith communities who are praying, reaching out, learning and acting for peace and racial justice. You can contribute to the conversation by participating in the Google hangout:
https://plus.google.com/events/cvrn7qoko1340a61in3j2nvde4o
Or, you can watch the hangout as it happens on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMwhqvHGTiA
ASSISI PLEDGE FOR PEACE
If you have any questions about the September 9 day of prayer or need any assistance, please contact me:
tcooper@archdpdx.org or 503-233-8386.
