In response to “the devastating acts of violence in Orlando, St. Paul, Baton Rouge, Dallas, and in our own communities,” Bishop Robert J. Cunningham is inviting all members of the community to join him July 13 for a special Mass to promote harmony.
In a statement released July 8, Bishop Cunningham said, “These acts of violence in our community, our country, and around the world have escalated to a point at which we all must pause and reflect on what is actually happening to our humanity.”
“Every human life is sacred and we can no longer sit back and simply watch these violent acts take place over and over. I implore all members of the community to join me in prayer that we will successfully work toward reconciliation and harmony,” the statement continued.
The Mass will be celebrated July 13 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 259 East Onondaga St., Syracuse, at 5:10 p.m. The Mass is open to the public. Bishop Cunningham asks those unable to attend to observe a moment of silent prayer at 5:10 p.m., the statement noted.
Bishop Cunningham’s full statement is below, along with an interview by Syracuse Catholic Television.
Bishop Cunningham invites all to special Mass to Promote Harmony
Syracuse, New York – In response to the devastating acts of violence in Orlando, St. Paul, Baton Rouge, Dallas, and in our own communities, Bishop Cunningham invites all members of the community to join him for a special Mass to promote harmony. The Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 13, 2016, at 5:10 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in downtown Syracuse.
“These acts of violence in our community, our country, and around the world have escalated to a point at which we all must pause and reflect on what is actually happening to our humanity,” states Bishop Cunningham. “Every human life is sacred and we can no longer sit back and simply watch these violent acts take place over and over. I implore all members of the community to join me in prayer that we will successfully work toward reconciliation and harmony.”
The Mass to Promote Harmony is open to the public. For those unable to attend the Mass, Bishop Cunningham asks that they take a moment in silent prayer at 5:10 p.m. on Wednesday. Let us all recall the words of Pope Francis: “May the God of peace arouse in all an authentic desire for dialogue and reconciliation. Violence cannot be overcome with violence. Violence is overcome with peace.”
