US bishops approve statement on race relations, hear reports
June 11, 2015
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops began its three-day meeting in St. Louis on June 10 and approved a statement on race relations.
“Gathering here in the city of St. Louis, so near to Ferguson, and looking ahead to Baltimore in November, I cannot help but think of recent events that have taken place around our beloved country,” said Archbishop Joseph Kurtz of Louisville, the conference’s president. “We mourn those tragic events in which African Americans and others have lost their lives in altercations with law enforcement officials.”
“I respect the sacrifices made by police officers throughout the nation, who in their daily work are placed in harm’s way,” he added. “Let us pray that they suffer no harm as they carry out their duties, and that they always be guided in good and right action as they serve.”
Calling for prayer for peace and study of the Word of God and Church teaching, the statement asked Catholics to “get to know our local law enforcement officers. Let them know of our support and gratitude. And encourage young people to respect all legitimate authority.”
The bishops also issued a brief message to Pope Francis and heard reports on the work of the National Review Board, earthquake relief in Haiti, immigration reform, communications resources, lay eccesial ministry, the World Meeting of Families, World Youth Day, the promotion and defense of marriage, the bishops’ quadrennial citizenship statement, and a 2017 convocation of 20 people from each diocese.
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
