JPIC UPDATE
December 21st is our National Homeless Persons’ Day of Remembrance. In Chicopee, MA the local friars and the community at The College of the Elms are joining others in praying for +Dakoda and +Ron, both of whom died on the streets this past year.
That evening marks the beginning of the longest night of the year. The friars of our province will join in prayer for the many homeless who die unnoticed, “that the Radiant Dawn, the Sun of Justice, will come and shine on those who dwelt in darkness and the shadow of death.”
JPIC EPISCOPAL “POSTINGS”
(1) In the Savannah newspaper, Our Lady of the Angels Province friar and Bishop of Savannah, GA – Most Reverend Gregory J. Hartmayer, OFM Conv. recently wrote about helping DACA dreamers fulfill their dreams. Let us all hope in prayer for Congress to act to protect the Dreamers before the Christmas recess. If you have a moment this week, to pick up the phone and call your representatives. A happier Christmas could be a dream come true for many!
(2) With the help of Franciscan Action Network (FAN) and other partners, Province of Our Lady of Consolation friar and Bishop of Lexington, KY – Most Reverend John E. Stowe, OFM Conv. authored an op-ed in the Lexington Paper concerning the RECLAIM Act in Congress. This legislation, if passed, can help the coal region through its concern for the natural environment and opportunities for employment. Such legislation could be a stepping stone for similar action in the coal region in Pennsylvania, where our friars have served for 117 years!
