August 9, 2018

A year following the violence that took place in Charlottesville as a result of protests and counter-protests, the Most Rev. Barry C. Knestout offers the following statement:

“As we draw closer to the weekend and the one-year mark of Aug. 12th which will once again draw national and local attention, I pray that it will not be approached with provocative rhetoric but provide an opportunity for prayer and dialogue about racism, and the action needed to overcome it.”

“Racism is a sin. As the U.S. Bishops wrote in 1979 – ‘a sin that divides the human family.’ Prayer — individually and as a faith community — is a start in addressing racism and to help heal from the effects of racism, but it cannot be an occasional act and it shouldn’t be confined to one day.”

“It is my sincere hope that all remain safe in these coming days and throughout the weekend, and may the Holy Spirit be a source of strength and comfort for the families and friends who continue to mourn the loss of a loved one.”

“I pray that during this time when we are challenged by divisions that we commit to praying, listening, learning, thinking and working for peace, justice and an end to racism.”

“I ask all the faithful of the diocese to join me in asking for the intercession of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Patroness of the United States, to pray with me for unity and peace in our communities.”

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Click Here to watch "Overcome by Love" a response from Saint Bridget and Monsignor Carr, published in 2017 after the events in Charlottesville took place.