Catholic Voices on Racism

"Evil such as we are witnessing these days can only be overcome by prayer.  At this most critical time in the history of our country and our towns and cities, I ask that each one of you join with me as we focus on the absolute necessity of praying to God for guidance, courage and the vision that tears down walls and helps to build bridges."
-Bishop David Zubik 

As St. Benedict the Moor Parish becomes a personal parish for Black Catholics, Bishop Zubik looks forward to its members sharing their God-given gifts with the diocese, he said in his July 12 homily.

"It's imperative that diversity is appreciated within the context of this community and that that diversity can help this parish and this entire diocese become more who we're called to be: the Body of Christ," he said.

Pope Francis addresses racism and the violent death of George Floyd during his General Audience on June 3, 2020.

“I have witnessed with great concern the disturbing social unrest in your nation in these past days, following the tragic death of Mr. George Floyd. We cannot tolerate or turn a blind eye to racism and exclusion in any form and yet claim to defend the sacredness of every human life. At the same time, we have to recognize that the violence of recent nights is self-destructive and self-defeating. Nothing is gained by violence and so much is lost," Pope Francis said.

He also called the faithful to fervent prayer for the victims of racism and repentance from the sin of it.

Deacon Matt Hawkins, who will be ordained to the priesthood on June 27, offered powerful words of encouragement in the face of fear stemming from racism and from the coronavirus pandemic.  

“It is in the midst of the desert of fear, of anxiety, of hopelessness, of futility, that God comes forth and offers us His Body and Blood, and offers us a way forward and a way out of the trap and the bondage and captivity of despair,” he said.

God of justice, In your wisdom you create all people in your image, without exception.
Through your goodness, open our eyes to see the dignity, beauty, and worth of every human being.
Open our minds to understand that all your children are brothers and sisters in the same human family.
Open our hearts to repent of racist attitudes, behaviors, and speech which demean others.
Open our ears to hear the cries of those wounded by racial discrimination, and their passionate appeals for change.
Strengthen our resolve to make amends for past injustices and to right the wrongs of history.
And fill us with courage that we might seek to heal wounds, build bridges, forgive and be forgiven, and establish peace and equality for all in our communities.
In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen.