Contemporary Issues in Heart-to-Heart
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Dear fellow parishioners and friends,
Each Friday, without fail, Bishop Crosby sends to us priests and parish ministers a one-page summary of important diocesan events of the week: the letter is called Heart to Heart. Because it is also posted on the diocesan website, we normally do not send it out to you by email but often put some of the announcements in the parish bulletin. However, this week Bishop Crosby’s letter highlights several very contemporary, relevant, and sensitive discussions. Please find the letter attached. Here are the sections that give links to help us further understand some of these important discussions:- The Tragic Act of Hated, the killing of 4 members of a Muslim family because of their faith, occurred in London a week ago. Open the link to the statement of the Catholic Bishops calling for an end to religious violence in Canada, most especially Islamophobia and Anti-Semitism.
- The Call for the Catholic Church to Apologize for involvement in the government-sponsored Indian Residential Schools is loud and clear. Apologies actually began 30 years ago. Open the link to the full apology of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate 30 years ago. The Oblates who administered most of the Catholic-run Residential Schools in Canada chose to apologize when these issues were first raised while they were marking the 150th anniversary of their presence and ministry in Canada.
- Thursday June 10, the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) announced a previously planned initiative that will contribute to meaningful dialogue and healing. Again, see the link below for more information.
- The Diocesan Ministry Family Office is offering an online information session and discussion about Bill C-7, which expands the eligibility criteria for euthanasia and assisted suicide. Another hot-button topic. There is a ZOOM link to that session.
Our faith needs to be informed and formed.
Blessings.
Fr. Brian
