USCCB issues final call for prayers, fasting for religious liberty

November 21, 2013

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is asking Catholics to pray, fast, and abstain from meat on Friday, November 22, that “the right to religious liberty may be honored and upheld so that all may be able to worship and follow God freely.”

In a reflection published along with the weekly request for prayers, the USCCB notes that the coming Sunday, November 24, will be the feast of Christ the King, “which reminds us that no earthly power can override man’s desire and freedom to worship his Creator.” The reflection notes that the US bishops’ ad hoc committee for religious liberty pointed to the feast of Christ the King as “a feast born out of resistance to totalitarian incursions against religious liberty.” The committee said that this Sunday would be a particularly auspicious occasion for preaching on religious freedom.

The USCCB call for fasting and prayer was the last in a series of weekly requests. In December 2012, the US bishops announced a call to prayer and penance whose “overall focus is to invite Catholics to pray for rebuilding a culture favorable to life and marriage and for increased protections of religious liberty. Campaign components include monthly Eucharistic holy hours in cathedrals and parishes, daily family rosary, special Prayers of the Faithful at all Masses, fasting and abstinence on Fridays, and the second observance of a Fortnight for Freedom.” The campaign ends with the conclusion of the Year of Faith.

 

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Further information:

• Call to Prayer Friday Fast: Intentions and Reflections (USCCB)
• Call to Prayer: Pledge to Fast (USCCB)