Bishops Ask for Prayers in Observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

Faith is not a light which scatters all our darkness, but a lamp which guides our steps in the night and suffices for the journey. – Pope Francis

 “The harm to persons by the intentional criminal acts of others can be long lasting. Crime victims, survivors, and their families need to know they are not alone.  Local Church communities will walk with them providing support and prayers on the road to healing and restoration.

“Healing is a process aimed at restoring a sense of physical safety, security and their sense of self.

TENNESSEE: Catholic Conference Supports Death Penalty Repeal for Persons with Mental Illness

Tennessee underwent legislation which sought to exclude those with severe mental illness from the death penalty. The Bishops expressed their support for this type of legislation and Jennifer Murphy, Director of the Tennessee Catholic Public Policy Commission, eloquently stated the collective Catholic opinion in an op-ed piece, part of which is found here:

Minnesota Catholic Conference Speaks Out Against the Death Penalty

The Minnesota Catholic Conference upholds the teachings of Pope John Paul II on the death penalty and supports Minnesota's decision to abolish it. Their 2017 legislative principle states:

"Pope John Paul II stated that the death penalty has no place where alternatives are available to protect society. Minnesota made a similar judgment when it abolished the death penalty in 1911. This policy has served us well and we must retain it."

To see the full text, click here

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