###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ Marriage and Family Life Secretariat Launches Web Pages for Celebration of “Year of 'Amoris Laetitia' Family” [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-marriage-and-family-life-secretariat-launches-web-pages-for-celebration-of-year-of-amoris-laetitia-family [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-03-22 15:01:33 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-03-22 19:01:33 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126600 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [8] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126597 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-03-22 14:56:43 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-03-22 18:56:43 [post_content] => March 22, 2021 WASHINGTON — Following deadly shootings at three businesses in the greater Atlanta area this past week and the dialogue that has been ignited about other reported incidents of aggression against people of Asian descent, Bishop Oscar A. Solis of Salt Lake City, and chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Subcommittee on Asian and Pacific Island Affairs decried the culture of death, hatred and violence that underlies these incidents and called for solidarity with the vulnerable. The full statement follows: “I am deeply saddened to hear of another mass shooting that has tragically taken the lives of eight people and has renewed concerns about a rise of hostility against individuals of Asian descent. As bishops, we decry any kind of hatred and violence, particularly based on race, ethnicity, or sex. We pray for the families and friends of those who were lost, and for their communities, who may feel unsafe and vulnerable at this time. “This latest incident has prompted national dialogue on addressing anti-Asian bias that has taken the form of numerous other acts of physical violence, verbal attacks and destruction of property against those of Asian descent over the last year that have left communities across the country traumatized. “I echo Archbishop Gregory Hartmayer’s words that ‘[w]e must support all victims of violence and stand in solidarity with those who are vulnerable in our communities.’ More broadly, we must always stress that every human being is a brother or sister in Christ, created in the image and likeness of a loving God. Particularly during this season of Lent, let us remember God’s love and mercy for each one of us and renew the call for conversion of heart, that we may be more united to God’s love and share it with all of our neighbors.” Last May, in the midst of increased reports of incidents of racism and xenophobia against Americans of Asian and Pacific Island heritage, three bishop chairmen issued a statementexpressing their “call for a stronger resolve towards unity, demonstrated through acts of solidarity, kindness and love toward one another, so that we can emerge from this crisis renewed and stronger as one American people; a people that places value in every human life, regardless of race, ethnic origin, gender or religious affiliation.”###
[post_title] => Statement of U.S. Bishops’ Chairman for Asian and Pacific Island Affairs on Discrimination Against the Asian Community [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-of-u-s-bishops-chairman-for-asian-and-pacific-island-affairs-on-discrimination-against-the-asian-community [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-03-22 14:56:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-03-22 18:56:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126597 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [9] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126554 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-03-18 15:49:05 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-03-18 19:49:05 [post_content] => March 18, 2021 WASHINGTON - Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), will celebrate a special Mass on Friday, March 19, 2021, the Solemnity of St. Joseph. The Mass will be livestreamed on the USCCB’s Facebook page.Friday, March 19, 2021
11:00 AM Eastern Time (8:00 AM Pacific)
Livestreamed on USCCB’s Facebook page, LA Catholics, or LA Catholics Facebook page
A special blessing for families will be given during the Mass in recognition of the efforts and contributions of families to continue building the domestic Church. Pope Francis has declared December 8, 2020 – December 8, 2021 as the Year of St. Joseph, marking the 150th anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as the patron of the Catholic Church by Blessed Pope Pius IX. March 19 is also the fifth anniversary of Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation, Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love), and the Vatican is launching an initiative upholding the important role that families play, which has been highlighted during the COVID pandemic. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth is coordinating the anniversary celebration in the U.S., and more information may be found here.###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ President to Celebrate National Mass on the Solemnity of St. Joseph [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-president-to-celebrate-national-mass-on-the-solemnity-of-st-joseph [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-03-18 16:07:15 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-03-18 20:07:15 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126554 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [10] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126536 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-03-15 14:41:26 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-03-15 18:41:26 [post_content] => March 15, 2021 WASHINGTON — Three committee chairmen of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) are affirming their strong support for the Child Welfare Provider Inclusion Act of 2021. The Act would prevent the federal government and any state receiving federal funds for child welfare services from taking adverse action against a provider that declines to conduct its services in a manner that would violate its religious or moral principles. “Child welfare providers, who serve the needs and rights of children regardless of background, enjoy the cherished freedom of religious liberty like all Americans,” wrote the bishops in a letter of support to Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Senator Tim Scott (R-SC), who introduced identical bills in their respective chambers. Some faith-based child welfare providers, including those operating in Massachusetts, Illinois, California, Philadelphia, New York, and the District of Columbia, have been excluded from carrying out adoption and foster care services because the providers act on their belief that children deserve to be placed with a married mother and father. The chairmen said, “The Inclusion Act would remedy this unjust discrimination, and maximize the benefit to thousands of children in need, by enabling all foster care and adoption providers to serve the needs of parents and children in a manner consistent with the providers’ religious beliefs and moral convictions.” Stressing that the Inclusion Act also respects the importance of a parent’s choice, the chairmen remarked, “Adoptive and foster care parents, as well as women and men who want to place their children, ought to be able to choose an agency that shares their religious beliefs or convictions about the best interests of their children.” The letter of support was signed by Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee for Religious Liberty; Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development; and Bishop David A. Konderla of Tulsa, chairman of the Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage, and is available here.###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishop Chairmen Reaffirm Protections for Faith-Based Foster Care and Adoption Providers [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishop-chairmen-reaffirm-protections-for-faith-based-foster-care-and-adoption-providers [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-03-15 14:41:26 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-03-15 18:41:26 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126536 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [11] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126520 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-03-12 14:57:30 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-03-12 19:57:30 [post_content] => Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of the Diocese of Arlington and Bishop Barry C. Knestout of the Diocese of Richmond issued the following statement on Governor Northam’s signature of legislation that drastically expands abortion coverage in Virginia: “Governor Northam has crossed yet another tragic threshold by inserting abortion without limits into Virginia’s health benefits exchange. We decry the enactment of this deplorable policy, which is built on the destructive lie that abortion is healthcare. We are saddened when we contemplate the increased number of unborn lives likely to be lost as a result. “The exchange is a virtual marketplace created under the federal Affordable Care Act, through which an estimated 240,000 Virginians access their health plans. Under state law for the past decade, plans participating in Virginia’s health exchange were prohibited from covering most abortions. This fundamentally pro-life provision undoubtedly saved many lives. Starting July 1 of this year, however, that provision will be eradicated from our law. Consequently, and tragically, health plans in the exchange will be allowed to cover abortions for any reason. “In many cases, people receive public subsidies to purchase these plans. Beginning July 1, even these taxpayer-funded plans can cover abortions without limitation. This means that taxpayers will be forced to fund plans that cover abortion on demand. “Without despair, and with maximum determination, we will continue our advocacy for the preeminent priority of protecting unborn children from this threat. So many lives, who have no voice except ours, depend on it.”###
The Diocese of Richmond
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Richmond is under the leadership and pastoral care of Bishop Barry C. Knestout. With 220,000 Catholics, 149 parishes and 29 schools, the diocese is a diverse faith community that comprises the entire Commonwealth of Virginia with the exception of 21 counties to the north. The Diocese of Richmond encourages Catholics across our diocese to live an active life of faith through the many opportunities offered within our diocesan boundaries. Our local Church works to support our diverse parishes and schools and welcomes all to live and practice the Gospel with faith and charity. Want to know more about us? Visit: www.richmonddiocese.org. [post_title] => Statement by Bishop Burbidge and Bishop Knestout on Governor Northam’s Signature of Abortion Expansion Legislation [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-by-bishop-burbidge-and-bishop-knestout-on-governor-northams-signature-of-abortion-expansion-legislation [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-03-12 14:57:30 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-03-12 19:57:30 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126520 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [12] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126502 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-03-11 10:30:31 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-03-11 15:30:31 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: March 11, 2021###
[post_title] => Diocese of Richmond Office of Catholic Schools Launches Saint Vincent de Paul Virtual Academy [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => diocese-of-richmond-office-of-catholic-schools-launches-saint-vincent-de-paul-virtual-academy [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-03-11 10:37:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-03-11 15:37:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126502 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [13] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126358 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-03-05 12:56:36 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-03-05 17:56:36 [post_content] => 5 de marzo del 2021 WASHINGTON— El arzobispo José H. Gomez de Los Ángeles, presidente de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Estados Unidos, y los presidentes de siete comités de la USCCB emitieron una declaración conjunta sobre el financiamiento del aborto en el Plan de Rescate Estadounidense. Al arzobispo Gomez se unen el Cardenal Timothy M. Dolan de Nueva York, presidente del Comité para la Libertad Religiosa; el arzobispo Joseph F. Naumann de Kansas City en Kansas, presidente del Comité de Actividades Pro-Vida; el arzobispo Paul S. Coakley de Oklahoma City, presidente del Comité de Justicia, Paz y Desarrollo Humano; el obispo David J. Malloy de Rockford, presidente del Comité de Justicia y Paz Internacional; el obispo Michael C. Barber, SJ, de Oakland, presidente del Comité de Educación Católica; el obispo Shelton J. Fabre de Houma-Thibodaux, presidente del Comité Ad Hoc contra el Racismo; y el obispo Mario E. Dorsonville, obispo auxiliar de Washington, presidente del Comité de Migración. La declaración de los obispos es la siguiente: “Nuestra nación necesita sanar, unirse y ayudarnos los unos a los otros. El Plan de Rescate Estadounidense es un paso importante en la dirección correcta. Ello debería proporcionar la asistencia que tanto necesitan las familias y empresas estadounidenses gravemente afectadas por la pandemia del coronavirus. Sin embargo, nos preocupa profundamente que esta importante legislación, tal como está redactada, corre el riesgo de crear nuevas divisiones al abandonar un compromiso bipartidista de larga data que respeta las conciencias de millones de estadounidenses. Durante 45 años, el Congreso de Estados Unidos, ya sea que esté controlado por Demócratas o por Republicanos, ha sostenido que no se debe obligar a los contribuyentes a pagar por los abortos en contra de su conciencia. Abandonar este compromiso en tiempos de emergencia nacional solo sirve para dividir a la gente en el momento mismo en que deberíamos estar unidos. Por favor, centrémonos en su lugar en brindar el alivio de COVID que tanto se necesita. Instamos al presidente Biden y al liderazgo en el Congreso a que no impongan a los estadounidenses la desgarradora decisión moral de preservar la vida y la salud de los nacidos o no nacidos, todos los cuales son nuestros vulnerables vecinos necesitados. Pedimos a nuestros líderes que por favor no enfrenten a las personas entre sí de esa manera. Pedimos a todos los miembros del Congreso que incluyan las mismas protecciones contra el financiamiento al aborto que han estado presentes en todos los proyectos de ley de alivio de COVID hasta la fecha y en todos los proyectos de ley de gastos anuales durante casi medio siglo”.###
[post_title] => El Presidente y Directivos de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de EE.UU. Emiten una Declaración Sobre el Financiamiento al Aborto en el Plan de Rescate Estadounidense [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => el-presidente-y-directivos-de-la-conferencia-de-obispos-catolicos-de-ee-uu-emiten-una-declaracion-sobre-el-financiamiento-al-aborto-en-el-plan-de-rescate-estadounidense [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-03-05 12:56:36 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-03-05 17:56:36 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126358 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [14] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126354 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-03-05 12:54:42 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-03-05 17:54:42 [post_content] => March 5, 2021 WASHINGTON— Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has been joined by the chairmen of seven USCCB committees in a statement on abortion funding in the American Rescue Plan. Joining Archbishop Gomez were Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York, chairman of the Committee for Religious Liberty; Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City in Kansas, chairman of the Committee on Pro-Life Activities; Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, chairman of the Committee on Justice, Peace and Human Development; Bishop David J. Malloy of Rockford, chairman of the Committee on International Justice and Peace; Bishop Michael C. Barber, SJ, of Oakland, chairman for the Committee on Catholic Education; Bishop Shelton J. Fabre of Houma-Thibodaux, chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism; and Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville, auxiliary bishop of Washington, chairman of the Committee on Migration. The full statement from the bishops follows: “Our nation needs to heal, come together, and help one another. The American Rescue Plan is an important step in the right direction. It should provide much needed assistance for American families and businesses hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic. “However, we are deeply concerned that this important legislation, as written, risks creating new divisions by abandoning a longstanding bipartisan compromise that respects the consciences of millions of Americans. “For 45 years, the United States Congress – whether controlled by Democrats or Republicans – has maintained that taxpayers should not be forced against their conscience to pay for abortions. Abandoning this compromise in a time of national emergency only serves to divide people in the very moment we should be united. Please, let us instead focus on delivering the COVID relief so desperately needed. “We urge President Biden and the leadership on Capitol Hill not to force upon Americans the wrenching moral decision whether to preserve the lives and health of the born or unborn, all of whom are our vulnerable neighbors in need. We ask that our leaders please not pit people against one another in such a way. We ask all Members of Congress to include the same protections against abortion funding that have been present in every COVID relief bill to date, and every annual spending bill for almost half a century." ### [post_title] => U.S. Bishop Chairmen Join Statement on Abortion Funding in American Rescue Plan [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishop-chairmen-joint-statement-on-abortion-funding-in-american-rescue-plan [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-03-05 12:54:49 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-03-05 17:54:49 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126354 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [15] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126341 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-03-04 10:51:10 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-03-04 15:51:10 [post_content] => March 4, 2021 WASHINGTON — Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and Bishop David J. Malloy of Rockford and chairman of USCCB’s Committee on International Justice and Peace call for prayer and solidarity with the Holy Father and the people of Iraq: “We call on all the faithful and people of good will in the United States to pray for the success and safety of Pope Francis’ Apostolic Journey to Iraq March 5-8 as he stands in solidarity with the local Church and promotes peaceful coexistence among all people of Iraq. “This is the first papal visit to Iraq and presents a critical opportunity to remember the suffering people of Iraq. We share in the Holy Father’s message of solidarity with our Christian brothers and sisters who are a part of the rich and ancient cultural fabric of the region and yet have undergone great trials in recent years, dwindling significantly in number amidst much conflict. We commend the good work of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association and Catholic Relief Services in Iraq and urge the faithful’s generous support of such organizations on this occasion. “We join our prayers to those of Mary our Blessed Mother, whose name is highly revered among the people of this land, beseeching that the anticipated interreligious meetings will be marked by new pathways of mutual understanding and peace. As Pope Francis exhorts in Evangelii gaudium, may these encounters be marked by ‘an attitude of openness in truth and in love.’” “May this moment in history mark a renewed hope for the Church in Iraq, the rebuilding of this society, and peaceful coexistence for all.”###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ President and International Justice and Peace Chairman Express Solidarity with Pope Francis’ Apostolic Journey to Iraq [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-president-and-international-justice-and-peace-chairman-express-solidarity-with-pope-francis-apostolic-journey-to-iraq [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-03-04 10:51:10 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-03-04 15:51:10 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126341 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [16] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126304 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-03-03 09:24:28 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-03-03 14:24:28 [post_content] => March 2, 2021 WASHINGTON— El 2 de marzo, el obispo Kevin C. Rhoades de Fort Wayne-South Bend, presidente del Comité de Doctrina y el arzobispo Joseph F. Naumann de Kansas City en Kansas, presidente del Comité de Actividades Pro-Vida de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Estados Unidos (USCCB), emitieron una declaración sobre la vacuna Johnson & Johnson contra el COVID-19, recientemente aprobada para su uso en Estados Unidos. “La aprobación de la vacuna de Johnson & Johnson contra el COVID-19 para su uso en Estados Unidos vuelve a plantear interrogantes sobre la permisibilidad moral del uso de vacunas desarrolladas, probadas y/o producidas con la ayuda de líneas celulares derivadas del aborto. Las vacunas de Pfizer y Moderna generaron preocupación debido a que se utilizó una línea celular derivada del aborto para probarlas, aunque no en su producción. Sin embargo, la vacuna de Johnson & Johnson se desarrolló, probó y se produce con líneas celulares derivadas del aborto, lo que genera preocupaciones morales adicionales. La Congregación para la Doctrina de la Fe ha juzgado que ‘cuando las vacunas contra el COVID-19, que son éticamente irreprochables no están disponibles..., es moralmente aceptable recibir vacunas contra el COVID-19 que han utilizado líneas celulares de fetos abortados en su proceso de investigación y producción’. [1] Sin embargo, si se puede elegir entre vacunas contra el COVID-19 igualmente seguras y efectivas, se debe elegir la vacuna con la menor conexión con las líneas celulares derivadas del aborto. Por lo tanto, si la persona tiene la capacidad de elegir una vacuna, se debe elegir entre las vacunas creadas por Pfizer o Moderna, en vez de la producida por Johnson & Johnson. Mientras que nosotros debemos seguir insistiendo en que las empresas farmacéuticas dejen de usar líneas celulares derivadas del aborto, dado el sufrimiento que está causando esta pandemia a nivel mundial, afirmamos nuevamente que vacunarse puede ser un acto de caridad que responde al bienestar común”. Para conocer mayores detalles, se puede consultar nuestro comunicado de diciembre de 2020, las Respuestas a preguntas éticas clave sobre las vacunas COVID-19, la Nota de la Congregación de la Doctrina de la Fe y la declaración de la Comisión Covid-19 del Vaticano en colaboración con la Pontificia Academia para la Vida.###
[post_title] => Los Presidentes de los Comités de Doctrina y Actividades Pro-Vida de la USCCB se Pronuncian Sobre el Uso de la Vacuna de Johnson & Johnson contra el Covid-19 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => los-presidentes-de-los-comites-de-doctrina-y-actividades-pro-vida-de-la-usccb-se-pronuncian-sobre-el-uso-de-la-vacuna-de-johnson-johnson-contra-el-covid-19 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-03-03 09:24:28 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-03-03 14:24:28 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126304 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [17] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126299 [post_author] => 15 [post_date] => 2021-03-03 07:08:27 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-03-03 12:08:27 [post_content] => March 2, 2021 WASHINGTON– On March 2, Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Doctrine, and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City in Kansas, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities, issued a statement on the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine recently approved for use in the United States. “The approval of Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine for use in the United States again raises questions about the moral permissibility of using vaccines developed, tested, and/or produced with the help of abortion-derived cell lines. “Pfizer and Moderna’s vaccines raised concerns because an abortion-derived cell line was used for testing them, but not in their production. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine, however, was developed, tested and is produced with abortion-derived cell lines raising additional moral concerns. The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith has judged that ‘when ethically irreproachable Covid-19 vaccines are not available … it is morally acceptable to receive Covid-19 vaccines that have used cell lines from aborted fetuses in their research and production process.’[1] However, if one can choose among equally safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines, the vaccine with the least connection to abortion-derived cell lines should be chosen. Therefore, if one has the ability to choose a vaccine, Pfizer or Moderna’s vaccines should be chosen over Johnson & Johnson’s. “While we should continue to insist that pharmaceutical companies stop using abortion-derived cell lines, given the world-wide suffering that this pandemic is causing, we affirm again that being vaccinated can be an act of charity that serves the common good.” For further details, we refer people to our earlier December 2020 statement, to our Answers to Key Ethical Questions About COVID-19 Vaccines, to the Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith’s Note, and to the statement of the Vatican Covid-19 Commission in collaboration with the Pontifical Academy for Life. [post_title] => U.S. Bishop Chairmen for Doctrine and for Pro-Life Address the Use of the Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 Vaccine [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishop-chairmen-for-doctrine-and-for-pro-life-address-the-use-of-the-johnson-johnson-covid-19-vaccine [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-03-03 07:08:27 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-03-03 12:08:27 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126299 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [18] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126289 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-03-02 10:40:06 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-03-02 15:40:06 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: March 2, 2021 The Most Reverend Barry C. Knestout has released the following statement: “In October 2019, the Little Sisters of the Poor announced that they had made the difficult decision to withdraw from St. Joseph Home in Henrico. Mother Jeanne Mary promised that the sisters would not leave until everything had been fully handed over to a suitable buyer. “Today, the sisters have announced that that day has come. “The special charisms of the Little Sisters of the Poor – the spirit of being a family and creating a home for those in need – will be deeply missed in the Diocese of Richmond, but we fully support the sisters as they discern how their community can provide the best care possible for those to whom they minister. “I offer prayers of gratitude for all the Little Sisters who have served at St. Joseph Home, and I pray that they will find a welcoming family atmosphere wherever they are assigned. I continue to pray for increased vocations to the Little Sisters and to other consecrated religious communities so that their missions may be strengthened in the years to come.” To read the full press release from the Little Sisters of the Poor, click here.###
[post_title] => Bishop Barry C. Knestout Statement on Little Sisters of the Poor Announcing a Buyer for St. Joseph’s Home in Henrico County [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-barry-c-knestout-statement-on-little-sisters-of-the-poor-announcing-a-buyer-for-st-josephs-home-in-henrico-county [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-03-02 10:44:47 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-03-02 15:44:47 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126289 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [19] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126235 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-02-24 12:00:31 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-02-24 17:00:31 [post_content] => February 23, 2021 WASHINGTON—Five committee chairmen of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) wrote a letter to members of Congress opposing the recent reintroduction of the Equality Act (H.R. 5), which is scheduled to be voted on by the U.S. House of Representatives this week. The bishops warned of the threats posed by the proposed legislation to both people of faith and of no faith, with respect to mandates impacting charities and their beneficiaries in need, health care and other conscience rights, taxpayer funding of abortion, freedom of speech, women’s sports and sex-specific facilities, and more. Their letter explained: “[E]very person is made in the image of God and should be treated accordingly, with respect and compassion. This commitment is reflected in the Church’s charitable service to all people, without regard to race, religion, or any other characteristic. It means we need to honor every person’s right to gainful employment free of unjust discrimination or harassment, and to the basic goods that they need to live and thrive. It also means that people of differing beliefs should be respected.” Furthermore, the bishop chairmen asserted, “The [Equality Act] represents the imposition by Congress of novel and divisive viewpoints regarding ‘gender’ on individuals and organizations. This includes dismissing sexual difference and falsely presenting ‘gender’ as only a social construct. As Pope Francis has reflected, however, ‘“biological sex and the socio-cultural role of sex (gender) can be distinguished but not separated.” … It is one thing to be understanding of human weakness and the complexities of life, and another to accept ideologies that attempt to sunder what are inseparable aspects of reality.’ Tragically, this Act can also be construed to include an abortion mandate, a violation of precious rights to life and conscience.” “Rather than affirm human dignity in ways that meaningfully exceed existing practical protections, the Equality Act would discriminate against people of faith,” they concluded. The letter was jointly signed by Bishop Michael C. Barber, S.J., of Oakland, chairman of the Committee on Catholic Education; Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development; Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York, chairman of the Committee for Religious Liberty; Bishop David A. Konderla of Tulsa, chairman of the Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage; and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City in Kansas, chairman of the Committee on Pro-Life Activities. The letter is available here. More information and resources related to the USCCB’s stance on the Equality Act may be found here.###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishop Chairmen Say Equality Act Would Discriminate Against People of Faith and Threaten Unborn Life [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishop-chairmen-say-equality-act-would-discriminate-against-people-of-faith-and-threaten-unborn-life [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-02-24 12:00:31 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-02-24 17:00:31 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126235 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [20] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126184 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-02-18 17:00:02 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-02-18 22:00:02 [post_content] => Bishop Barry C. Knestout will participate in the U.S. Catholic Conference of Bishops’ “Journeying Together,” an intercultural dialogue for youth and young adults, this Sunday, Feb. 21 at 2 p.m.###
[post_title] => Bishop Knestout Announces Clergy Appointments [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-announces-clergy-appointments [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-02-17 13:33:30 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-02-17 18:33:30 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126084 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [22] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126073 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-02-11 12:49:59 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-02-11 17:49:59 [post_content] => February 11, 2021Bishop Knestout's Message for World Day of the Sick 2021
“As our Church marks this World Day of the Sick, our Holy Father reminds us that we must match our words with actions in reaching out to the sick, that we must personally be the presence of Christ to them.”
###
[post_title] => Bishop Knestout's Message for World Day of the Sick 2021 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-message-for-world-day-of-the-sick-2021 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-02-11 12:55:36 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-02-11 17:55:36 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126073 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [23] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 126007 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-02-05 13:27:02 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-02-05 18:27:02 [post_content] => February 5, 2021 Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of the Diocese of Arlington and Bishop Barry C. Knestout of the Diocese of Richmond issued the following statement on passage of death penalty abolition legislation: “We welcome today’s vote by the Virginia House of Delegates to abolish the death penalty, as well as the vote by the Virginia Senate to do so earlier this week. “We offer – and affirm the utmost need for – prayerful support for the families of victims of horrific crimes. We also affirm, with clarity and conviction, the words of the 'Catechism of the Catholic Church': ‘[T]he death penalty is inadmissible because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person’ (no. 2267). “The same paragraph of the 'Catechism' also notes, ‘[T]here is an increasing awareness that the dignity of the person is not lost even after the commission of very serious crimes.’ We see this increasing awareness at work in the many voices that joined together to advocate for this legislation, and ultimately in the votes by the Senate and House in favor of ending the death penalty in Virginia, which has executed more people than any other state. “In the words of Pope Francis, ‘Indeed, nowadays the death penalty is unacceptable, however grave the crime of the convicted person. It is an offense to the inviolability of life and to the dignity of the human person; it likewise contradicts God’s plan for individuals and society, and his merciful justice’ (Remarks to 6th World Congress against the Death Penalty, June 2016). As Pope Francis, his predecessors and the U.S. Catholic bishops have consistently noted, we have other ways to provide punishment and protect society, without resorting to executions. We too have been consistently clear in our stand on the abolition legislation this year and on similar legislation in years past, and in our direct interventions before executions occurred in Virginia and at the federal level.”###
[post_title] => Statement by Bishop Burbidge and Bishop Knestout on Passage of Death Penalty Abolition Legislation [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-by-bishop-burbidge-and-bishop-knestout-on-passage-of-death-penalty-abolition-legislation [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-02-05 13:27:02 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-02-05 18:27:02 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=126007 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [24] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125888 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-02-02 10:57:26 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-02-02 15:57:26 [post_content] => [caption id="attachment_125889" align="alignright" width="300"]###
[post_title] => Catholic Diocese of Richmond Statement Regarding Shalom House Retreat Center [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catholic-diocese-of-richmond-statement-regarding-shalom-house-retreat-center [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-02-02 10:57:26 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-02-02 15:57:26 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125888 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [25] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125853 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-01-29 16:15:03 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-29 21:15:03 [post_content] => January 29, 2021 WASHINGTON - Yesterday, President Biden released a statement announcing his intention to rescind the current regulation governing the Title X family planning program. The current regulation follows federal law by explaining that abortion cannot be part of a Title X family planning program either by using the same office space, sharing financing, or mandating referrals for abortion. The following statement was issued by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City in Kansas, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities: “Although the Catholic Bishops have grave concerns about government promotion of contraceptives, we have long supported efforts to ensure that the provision and promotion of abortion is kept physically and financially out of the pre-pregnancy family planning services provided through the Title X program. Abortion takes the life of an already-conceived and growing child, and most Americans agree that abortion should not be used as a method of family planning or as a ‘back up’ for failed family planning. “Title X, therefore, draws a bright line between abortion and family planning. In addition to the program explicitly prohibiting taxpayer funding for abortion, its authors further emphasized this intent by stating that, ‘the funds authorized under this legislation [shall] be used only to support preventive family planning services, population research, infertility services, and other related medical, informational, and educational activities.’ By rescinding this rule, the Administration will be forcing abortion into a pre-pregnancy program specifically designed to exclude abortion; a move which is immoral, impractical, and may also be unlawful.”###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ Pro-Life Chairman on White House Action to Rescind Title X Rule [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-pro-life-chairman-on-white-house-action-to-rescind-title-x-rule [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-01-29 16:15:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-01-29 21:15:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125853 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [26] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125838 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-01-29 09:33:44 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-29 14:33:44 [post_content] => To strengthen and better support the Catholic Diocese of Richmond’s parishes and ethnic and college communities, Bishop Barry C. Knestout announced the restructuring of two Pastoral Center offices and the establishment of a new office, effective January 26, 2021. [caption id="attachment_125840" align="alignright" width="200"]###
[post_title] => Catholic Diocese of Richmond Restructures Pastoral Center Offices [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catholic-diocese-of-richmond-restructures-pastoral-center-offices [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-02-02 10:24:32 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-02-02 15:24:32 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125838 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [27] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125830 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-01-28 10:00:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-28 15:00:16 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: January 28, 2021Diocesan Review Board Concludes Inquiry into Allegations Against Former Priest, Father Thomas Long
Accusations were made in 2020
(RICHMOND, Va.) - Following a lengthy investigation by the Diocesan Review Board, Bishop Barry C. Knestout of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond has determined that the allegations of child sexual abuse made against Thomas Long, a former priest of the diocese, are not credible. For this reason, Long will not have his name added to the diocesan list of clergy against whom credible and substantiated allegations of child sexual abuse have been made. Long voluntarily left active ministry in 1988.
On June 8, 2020, the Catholic Diocese of Richmond announced it had received a report of allegations of child sexual abuse against the former priest. The allegations were reported to civil authorities. In accordance with the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People,” the diocese conducted an internal investigation of the allegations involving Long. The information gathered was presented to the Diocesan Review Board, which reported its findings and recommendations to Bishop Knestout. The bishop accepted their recommendations and concluded that the allegations were not credible. Just as the diocese strives to remain transparent when child sexual abuse allegations are brought forward, the diocese will also publicly clear the accused of any wrongdoing when an accused is subjected to unsupported allegations. The diocesan Child Protection Policy can be viewed online at: https://richmonddiocese.org/diocesan-policies/###
[post_title] => Diocesan Review Board Concludes Inquiry into Allegations Against Former Priest, Father Thomas Long [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => diocesan-review-board-concludes-inquiry-into-allegations-against-former-priest-father-thomas-long [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-01-28 10:47:49 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-01-28 15:47:49 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125830 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [28] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125793 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-01-27 08:00:40 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-27 13:00:40 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: January 27, 2021 “As we mark the 48th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, we have many for whom to pray: For the woman faced with an unplanned pregnancy, that she will choose life for her child, and for legislative representatives that they enact legislation to protect the lives of all people — from conception to natural death. “Our commitment to life begins with the child in the womb, but it does not end there. It continues with our commitment to health care, adequate food and housing, and quality education. It requires stewardship of our environment and includes advocating for abolition of capital punishment and for dignity in dying a natural death. “Today, as we remember the unborn, let us remember that to be truly “pro-life” is to be respectful and protective of all human life.”###
[post_title] => Statement from Bishop Barry C. Knestout on the 48th Anniversary of Roe v. Wade [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-from-bishop-barry-c-knestout-on-the-48th-anniversary-of-roe-v-wade [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-01-26 16:30:58 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-01-26 21:30:58 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125793 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [29] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125814 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-01-26 18:45:30 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-26 23:45:30 [post_content] => January 26, 2021 Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of the Diocese of Arlington and Bishop Barry C. Knestout of the Diocese of Richmond issued the following statement on today’s Virginia House of Delegates passage of abortion expansion legislation: “Today, the House of Delegates made the tragic decision to expand drastically abortion coverage in Virginia’s health benefits exchange. This legislation is identical to the bill the Senate passed that permits plans participating in the exchange to cover abortion for any reason, funded in significant part with Virginians’ tax dollars. Taxes pay for managing the exchange, and for subsidizing health plans of tens of thousands of low- and middle-income Virginians using the exchange to provide healthcare for themselves and their families. "Replacing the current life-saving restrictions on abortion with a policy of abortion coverage without limits in our state exchange is drastic, dangerous and will result in the tragic end to more unborn lives. Though this bill has passed, advocacy against future threats to life and dignity is essential. Therefore, we encourage all to continue in the active participation of the faithful in our two dioceses in this advocacy. If you have not already done so, please visit vacatholic.org to join our Conference’s email network to receive critical alerts and updates. "As the U.S. bishops’ Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship statement highlights, ‘The obligation to participate in political life is rooted in our baptismal commitment to follow Jesus Christ and to bear Christian witness in all we do’ (no. 13). Every day, without discouragement, may we each continue to advocate with relentless determination for life and dignity. Our baptism calls us to do no less.”###
[post_title] => Statement by Bishop Burbidge and Bishop Knestout on Virginia House of Delegates Passage of Abortion Expansion Legislation [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-by-bishop-burbidge-and-bishop-knestout-on-virginia-house-of-delegates-passage-of-abortion-expansion-legislation [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-01-27 12:45:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-01-27 17:45:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125814 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [30] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125782 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-01-26 13:49:54 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-26 18:49:54 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: January 26, 2021 Bishop Barry C. Knestout has issued the following statement regarding Catholic Schools Week, which will be celebrated from Jan. 31 - Feb. 6, 2021: “As we celebrate Catholic Schools Week, we are reminded of the gift that our Catholic schools are, not only to our Church, but to our communities in what they provide. “First and foremost, they provide faith formation — formation steeped in Scripture and Church teaching — for more than 8,400 children and youth in our diocese. “They provide quality education in all subject areas, preparing future generations to use their God-given skills and talents to the best of their abilities. “Service is part of our Catholic schools’ curriculum. Students are taught to put into practice what they learn in the classroom. They are taught that charity and service to the poor and vulnerable are life-long commitments. “During this week, let us give thanks to God for our Catholic schools, especially for the parents, teachers, principals, staffs, students, alumni and donors who compose the fabric of those schools.”###
[post_title] => Statement from Bishop Barry C. Knestout on Catholic Schools Week 2021 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-from-bishop-barry-c-knestout-on-catholic-schools-week-2021 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-01-27 10:25:16 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-01-27 15:25:16 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125782 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [31] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125768 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-01-25 13:00:18 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-25 18:00:18 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: January 25, 2021 (RICHMOND, Va.) – The Catholic Diocese of Richmond has begun a review into allegations of child sexual abuse made against a Jesuit priest, Thomas P. McDonnell, S.J., during his time in the Diocese of Richmond at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Henrico County. Father McDonnell served at that parish between 1996-2003. Father McDonnell denies the allegations. According to the provincial for the USA East Province of Jesuits, Father McDonnell, 83, is not currently serving in ministry and has not been in public ministry since October 2020, which is prior to the time the allegation was received. The diocese has not reached any conclusions regarding these allegations. Rather, this statement serves to announce the beginning of its inquiry into the allegations. Until this inquiry concludes, the accused is given a presumption of innocence unless the preponderance of evidence from the investigation would indicate otherwise. The diocese has also notified the civil authorities. The diocese takes allegations of child sexual abuse very seriously, and Bishop Knestout acknowledges the great courage it takes for individuals to come forward to report allegations of this nature. Very Rev. Joseph M. O’Keefe, provincial of the USA East Province of the Jesuits, has prohibited Father McDonnell from any public ministry while the allegations are being reviewed. As part of the Church inquiry into the allegations, the Diocesan Review Board will make recommendations to Bishop Knestout. Based upon its findings, the Diocesan Review Board’s recommendations will assist Bishop Knestout with an appropriate response to the allegations. Then, Bishop Knestout will make a final determination and advise the provincial of the same. Any questions related to Father McDonnell’s other assignments should be directed to the USA East Province of Jesuits’ director of communications at mgabriele@jesuits.org. Individuals who have been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, religious, lay employee or volunteer of the diocese should report abuse directly to law enforcement, including Child Protective Services (CPS) at 1-800-552-7096, and by calling the Attorney General’s Clergy Abuse Hotline at 1-833-454-9064. Individuals are also encouraged to contact the 24-hour confidential Victim’s Assistance Reporting number at 1-877-887-9603 or email vac@richmonddiocese.org to report sexual abuse.###
[post_title] => Catholic Diocese of Richmond Begins Review into Allegations Against Inactive Jesuit Priest [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catholic-diocese-of-richmond-begins-review-into-allegations-against-inactive-jesuit-priest [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-01-25 13:00:18 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-01-25 18:00:18 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125768 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [32] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125745 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2021-01-22 17:43:15 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-22 22:43:15 [post_content] => January 22, 2021 Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of the Diocese of Arlington and Bishop Barry C. Knestout of the Diocese of Richmond issued the following statement on today’s Virginia Senate passage of abortion expansion legislation: “We express our deep disappointment with today’s Virginia Senate vote to infuse the Commonwealth’s health benefits exchange with abortion for any reason, funded in significant part with Virginians’ tax dollars. Created pursuant to the federal Affordable Care Act, the health exchange is a virtual ‘marketplace’ for those shopping for health insurance. Taxes pay for managing the exchange, and for subsidizing health plans of tens of thousands of low- and middle-income Virginians using the exchange to provide healthcare for themselves and their families. Ten years ago, our Virginia Catholic Conference advocated – and succeeded in attaining – an important provision keeping most abortions out of the exchange. Keeping taxpayer-subsidized abortion-on-demand out of the exchange is consistent with the federal Hyde Amendment, in place for more than four decades and which most Americans support. Tragically, the Senate today took a far different path. Replacing the current life-saving restrictions on abortion with a policy of abortion coverage without limits in our state exchange is drastic, dangerous and will result in the tragic end to more unborn lives. We understand the House of Delegates will be voting on this policy next week. We urge them to reject this abortion expansion and preserve the sensible, life-affirming health exchange policy Virginia has had for the past 10 years. Abortion is not healthcare; it ends lives instead of healing them. We express our deep disappointment with this vote on a very solemn day in U.S. history. On this day when we reflect in particular on the more than 60 million unborn lives lost since the Roe v. Wade decision, and on every day, we continue to advocate with relentless determination for healthcare that affirms every life, born and unborn.”###
[post_title] => Statement by Bishop Burbidge and Bishop Knestout on Virginia Senate Passage of Abortion Expansion Legislation [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-by-bishop-burbidge-and-bishop-knestout-on-virginia-senate-passage-of-abortion-expansion-legislation [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-01-22 17:43:15 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-01-22 22:43:15 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125745 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [33] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125678 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-01-20 16:07:04 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-20 21:07:04 [post_content] => January 20, 2021 “We as Catholics, no matter what our political beliefs, pray with and for our new president as he is inaugurated into office. We are one nation under God, and it is incumbent upon us, as people of faith, to entrust our leaders to God’s care. “We pray that all civic leadership can work through differences and that unity and civil conversations may help move our country in the direction that demonstrates our witness to the Gospel. “We ask our Blessed Mother, to whom our nation is entrusted, to intercede and bless our president as well as all national leaders, that they lead with integrity and truth, and that they pursue and preserve justice for all. May the Holy Spirit strengthen them with wisdom and continue to bless our nation.”###
[post_title] => Bishop Knestout Statement on Inauguration of 46th President of the United States [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-statement-on-inauguration-of-46th-president-of-the-united-states [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-01-20 16:07:25 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-01-20 21:07:25 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125678 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [34] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125659 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-01-20 14:56:54 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-20 19:56:54 [post_content] => Bishop Barry C. Knestout has made the following clergy appointment, effective Friday, Jan. 15, 2021: Very Rev. Eric J. Ayers, V.F., dean of Deanery 1 and pastor of Blessed Sacrament, Norfolk, has been appointed as episcopal vicar of the Eastern Vicariate. Father Ayers will continue in his current role as dean until a new dean is named. He will remain pastor of Blessed Sacrament.###
[post_title] => Bishop Knestout Announces Appointment of New Epsicopal Vicar of Eastern Vicariate [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-announces-appointment-of-new-epsicopal-vicar-of-eastern-vicariate [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-01-20 15:23:27 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-01-20 20:23:27 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125659 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [35] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125579 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2021-01-17 20:58:31 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-18 01:58:31 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: January 18, 2021 “Today, we celebrate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose legacy is a testament to the fact that change for the good is always possible because God is always with us. “In the times of uncertainty and anxiety the nation is facing due to the pandemic and civil unrest, we do well to remember the words of Dr. King: "We must develop and maintain the capacity to forgive. He who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love. There is some good in the worst of us and some evil in the best of us. When we discover this, we are less prone to hate…." “Jesus taught us to love one another, as love has the power to transform hearts. As my brother bishops wrote in “Open Wide Our Hearts, a pastoral letter on racism, “to do justice requires an honest acknowledgement of our failures and the restoring of right relationships between us…to love goodness demands pursuing ‘what leads to peace and to building up one another.’” (Rom 14:19) “We acknowledge that to truly move forward as the Body of Christ, past racial injustices in this country and within the Church must be recognized. In the last year, we have held prayer services for healing, and our parishes have organized events dedicated to addressing and resolving issues of racism and injustice. While these efforts do not erase those sins, they are a start to healing our individual and collective hearts.”###
[post_title] => Statement from Bishop Barry C. Knestout on Martin Luther King Day 2021 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-barry-c-knestout-of-catholic-diocese-of-richmond-on-martin-luther-king-jr-day-2021 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-01-18 09:35:31 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-01-18 14:35:31 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125579 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [36] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125556 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-01-14 11:20:47 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-14 16:20:47 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: January 14, 2021 RICHMOND, Va. – The Most Rev. Barry C. Knestout, bishop of Richmond, announces that the Catholic Diocese of Richmond remains in compliance with the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops’ “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.” The report from the independent auditor covers the 2019-2020 audit period. The diocese has remained in compliance since the initial audit in 2004. The report and its findings demonstrate the ongoing commitment of the diocese to the protection of children, youth and vulnerable from sexual abuse. As part of this commitment, diocesan policies on safe environment and conduct were strengthened with the promulgation of the Code of Ethical Conduct in February 2020. The compliance notification comes from Stonebridge Business Partners, Rochester, N.Y., which conducts the yearly audits for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Office of Child and Youth Protection. You can read the letter of compliance here. The diocese will participate in an on-site audit in 2021, which is conducted every third year.###
[post_title] => Catholic Diocese of Richmond Remains in Compliance with the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People” [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catholic-diocese-of-richmond-remains-in-compliance-with-the-charter-for-the-protection-of-children-and-young-people [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-01-14 11:20:47 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-01-14 16:20:47 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125556 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [37] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125536 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2021-01-12 16:39:57 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-12 21:39:57 [post_content] => As the Diocese of Richmond’s bicentennial commemoration was coming to a close, a statue of the diocese’s patron saint, St. Vincent de Paul, was unveiled, dedicated and blessed outside the Pastoral Center, Tuesday, Jan. 12.All are welcome and invited to join His Excellency, the Most Reverend Barry C. Knestout by livestream in recognition of our Jubilee Year as we dedicate the statue of St. Vincent de Paul, patron of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond.
The live-stream will be broadcast on our YouTube and Facebook pages. You can also visit our livestream page to connect as well.
[caption id="attachment_125474" align="alignleft" width="391"]###
[post_title] => Dioceses Across the USA Participating in Nationwide Prayer Vigil For Life, January 28-29 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => dioceses-across-the-usa-participating-in-nationwide-prayer-vigil-for-life-january-28-29 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-01-18 16:36:29 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-01-18 21:36:29 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125465 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [40] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125455 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2021-01-07 17:36:22 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-01-07 22:36:22 [post_content] => Immediate Release: January 6, 2021WASHINGTON —Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), issued the following statement in response to today’s violence in the United States Capitol:
“I join people of good will in condemning the violence today at the United States Capitol. This is not who we are as Americans. I am praying for members of Congress and Capitol staff and for the police and all those working to restore order and public safety.
“The peaceful transition of power is one of the hallmarks of this great nation. In this troubling moment, we must recommit ourselves to the values and principles of our democracy and come together as one nation under God. I entrust all of us to the heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary. May she guide us in the ways of peace, and obtain for us wisdom and the grace of a true patriotism and love of country.”
###
USCCB Media Contact: Chieko Noguchi #202-541-3200
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ President Condemns Violent Protests and Prays for Safety as Chaos Threatens U.S. Capitol [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-president-condemns-violent-protests-and-prays-for-safety-as-chaos-threatens-u-s-capitol [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-01-07 17:36:22 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-01-07 22:36:22 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125455 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [41] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125056 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-12-15 13:58:22 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-12-15 18:58:22 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: December 15, 2020 (RICHMOND, Va.) – The Catholic Diocese of Richmond has announced today (Dec. 15, 2020) that an individual who previously came forward and accused a retired diocesan priest of child sexual abuse has recanted the accusations. The allegations were made earlier this year against Father William Dinga Jr. This recantation by the alleged victim exonerates Father Dinga of these accusations. Father Dinga adamantly denied and maintained his innocence concerning the allegations, which arose from alleged conduct at Christ the King Catholic Church in Norfolk in 1986, when they were brought to the attention of the diocese. Just as the diocese strives to remain transparent when child sexual abuse allegations are brought forward, the diocese will also publicly clear the accused of any wrongdoing when an accused is subjected to mistaken or unsupported allegations. Father Dinga, who obtained a medical retirement in 1990, was ordained a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond in 1975. As a result of Father Dinga’s exoneration of these charges, the diocese has restored him to the previous position and status he held with the diocese prior to the now recanted allegations.###
[post_title] => Recent Allegations Against Retired Priest, Father William Dinga Jr., Renounced by Individual Accuser [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => recent-allegations-against-retired-priest-father-william-dinga-jr-renounced-by-individual-accuser [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-12-15 13:58:22 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-12-15 18:58:22 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125056 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [42] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125048 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-12-14 13:01:47 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-12-14 18:01:47 [post_content] => December 14, 2020 WASHINGTON– On December 14, Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Doctrine, and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City in Kansas, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities, issued a statement on the new COVID-19 vaccines. In their statement, the bishops address the moral concerns raised by the fact that the three vaccines that appear to be ready for distribution in the United States all have some connection to cell lines that originated with tissue taken from abortions. With regard to the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, they concluded: “In view of the gravity of the current pandemic and the lack of availability of alternative vaccines, the reasons to accept the new COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna are sufficiently serious to justify their use, despite their remote connection to morally compromised cell lines. “Receiving one of the COVID-19 vaccines ought to be understood as an act of charity toward the other members of our community. In this way, being vaccinated safely against COVID-19 should be considered an act of love of our neighbor and part of our moral responsibility for the common good.” With regard to the AstraZeneca vaccine, the bishops found it to be “more morally compromised” and consequently concluded that this vaccine “should be avoided” if there are alternatives available. “It may turn out, however, that one does not really have a choice of vaccine, at least, not without a lengthy delay in immunization that may have serious consequences for one’s health and the health of others,” the bishop chairmen stated. “In such a case … it would be permissible to accept the AstraZeneca vaccine.” At the same time, the bishops also warned that Catholics “must be on guard so that the new COVID-19 vaccines do not desensitize us or weaken our determination to oppose the evil of abortion itself and the subsequent use of fetal cells in research.” The full statement from the bishop chairmen may be found here.###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishop Chairmen for Pro-Life and Doctrine Address Ethical Concerns on the New COVID-19 Vaccines [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishop-chairmen-for-pro-life-and-doctrine-address-ethical-concerns-on-the-new-covid-19-vaccines [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-12-14 13:01:47 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-12-14 18:01:47 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125048 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [43] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 125018 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-12-11 09:13:46 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-12-11 14:13:46 [post_content] =>December 9, 2020 Memorial of St. Juan Diego Cuahtlatoatzin
Dear Faithful of the Diocese of Richmond, "Juanita ... I am the ever-virgin Mary, Mother of the true God ... It is my ardent desire that a church be erected here so that in it I can show and bestow my love, compassion, help, and protection to all who inhabit this land and to those others who love me." The Virgin Mary addressed these words to St. Juan Diego in 1531 on the outskirts of Mexico City. Since then, countless people in the Americas, the Philippines, and elsewhere have venerated Our Lady of Guadalupe with great love and trust. Understanding how important this devotion is, Pope Francis has granted a plenary indulgence to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the coronation of Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12, 2020. An indulgence (Latin: indulgentia, meaning "kindness") is one way to cleanse the "residue" of sin. The Church defines an indulgence as "the remission before God of temporal punishment for sins whose guilt is already forgiven" (Code of Canon Law, canon 992). Temporal punishment helps free a sinner from earthly (temporal) desires. In granting an indulgence, the Church pays a person's debt of temporal punishment by drawing on the infinite value of Christ's suffering, along with the good works, sufferings, and prayers of the Virgin Mary and all the saints. The faithful can obtain, at home, the indulgence associated with Our Lady of Guadalupe in the following way:Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverent Barry C. Knestout Bishop of Richmond
[post_title] => Bishop Knestout Letter on the Plenary Indulgence for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-letter-on-the-plenary-indulgence-for-the-feast-of-our-lady-of-guadalupe [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-12-11 09:13:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-12-11 14:13:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=125018 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [44] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124780 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-11-17 20:29:09 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-11-18 01:29:09 [post_content] => November 17, 2020 WASHINGTON—The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) approved today three action items at their 2020 Fall General Assembly that met November 16-17 in a virtual format. The full body of bishops approved the Revised Strategic Priorities for the 2021-24 USCCB Strategic Plan, “Created Anew by the Body and Blood of Christ: Source of Our Healing and Hope” by a vote of 193 - 3 with two abstentions. The bishops also voted to approve the renewal of the Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism that focuses on addressing the sin of racism. The committee was established in August 2017, upon the unanimous recommendation of the USCCB’s Executive Committee and in consultation with members of the USCCB's Committee on Priorities and Plans. The vote to renew the Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism was 194 - 3 with one abstention. The bishops also accepted the recommendations of the Committee on Budget and Finance for approval of the 2021 Proposed Budgets by a vote of 193 - 1 with four abstentions. News updates, vote totals, texts of addresses and presentations, and other materials of the General Assembly can be found at www.usccb.org/meetings.###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops Approve Three Action Items During 2020 General Assembly [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-approve-three-action-items-during-2020-general-assembly [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-11-17 20:29:09 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-11-18 01:29:09 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124780 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [45] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124702 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-11-10 13:44:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-11-10 18:44:07 [post_content] =>Statement on Holy See’s Report on Theodore McCarrick
Most Reverend José H. Gomez Archbishop of Los Angeles President, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
November 10, 2020 I welcome the report of the Holy See’s investigation into its knowledge and decision-making regarding Theodore McCarrick during his long career as a priest, bishop, and cardinal. We are studying these findings, and we are grateful to our Holy Father Pope Francis for his pastoral concern for the family of God in the United States and his leadership in calling the Church to greater accountability and transparency in addressing issues of abuse and the mishandling of abuse claims at every level. This is another tragic chapter in the Church’s long struggle to confront the crimes of sexual abuse by clergy. To McCarrick’s victims and their families, and to every victim-survivor of sexual abuse by the clergy, I express my profound sorrow and deepest apologies. Please know that my brother bishops and I are committed to doing whatever is in our power to help you move forward and to ensure that no one suffers what you have been forced to suffer. To all those who have suffered abuse by a priest, bishop, or someone in the Church, I urge you to report this abuse to law enforcement and to Church authorities. You can find detailed information on how and where to report abuse at www.usccb.org/committees/protection-children-young-people/how-report-abuse. This report underscores the need for us to repent and grow in our commitment to serve the people of God. Let us all continue to pray and strive for the conversion of our hearts, and that we might follow Jesus Christ with integrity and humility.###
[post_title] => USCCB Statement on Holy See’s Report on Theodore McCarrick [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-on-holy-sees-report-on-theodore-mccarrick [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-11-10 16:10:27 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-11-10 21:10:27 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124702 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [46] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124703 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-11-10 13:40:12 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-11-10 18:40:12 [post_content] =>Comunicado sobre el Reporte de la Santa Sede en relación con Theodore McCarrick
Reverendísimo José H. Gomez Arzobispo de Los Ángeles Presidente de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Estados Unidos
10 de noviembre de 2020 Recibo con satisfacción el informe de la investigación de la Santa Sede sobre su conocimiento y toma de decisiones en relación con Theodore McCarrick durante su larga carrera como sacerdote, obispo y cardenal. Nosotros estamos estudiando estos hallazgos y nos sentimos agradecidos con nuestro Santo Padre, el Papa Francisco, por su preocupación pastoral por la familia de Dios en Estados Unidos, y por su liderazgo al llamar a la Iglesia a tener una mayor responsabilidad y transparencia al abordar los problemas de abuso y el mal manejo de los reclamos de abuso a todos los niveles. Este es otro trágico capítulo en la larga lucha de la Iglesia para enfrentar los crímenes de abuso sexual por parte del clero. A las víctimas de McCarrick y sus familias, y a todas las víctimas sobrevivientes de abuso sexual por parte del clero, les expreso mi más profundo pesar y mis más sinceras disculpas. Por favor sepan que mis hermanos obispos y yo estamos comprometidos a hacer todo lo que esté a nuestro alcance para ayudarlos a seguir adelante y así mismo a asegurarnos de que otros no sufran lo que ustedes se han visto forzados a sufrir. A todos aquellos que han sufrido abusos por parte de un sacerdote, obispo o alguien de la Iglesia, los insto a que denuncien este abuso a las autoridades policiales y eclesiásticas. Usted puede encontrar información detallada sobre cómo y dónde denunciar el abuso en www.usccb.org/committees/protection-children-young-people/how-report-abuse. Este informe resalta la necesidad que tenemos de arrepentirnos y de crecer en nuestro compromiso de servir al pueblo de Dios. Vamos a continuar orando y esforzándonos por la conversión de nuestro corazón y para que podamos seguir a Jesucristo con integridad y humildad.###
[post_title] => Comunicado sobre el Reporte de la Santa Sede en relación con Theodore McCarrick [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => comunicado-sobre-el-reporte-de-la-santa-sede-en-relacion-con-theodore-mccarrick [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-11-10 16:10:48 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-11-10 21:10:48 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124703 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [47] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124713 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-11-10 12:55:14 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-11-10 17:55:14 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: November 10, 2020 (RICHMOND, Va.) – Earlier today, the Vatican published an extensive report following an investigation of Theodore McCarrick, former cardinal of the Catholic Church (1930-2017). In response, Bishop Barry C. Knestout has issued the following statement: “I express my deepest gratitude to our Holy Father, Pope Francis, for ordering the thorough review and investigation concerning the career of Theodore E. McCarrick, former bishop and cardinal. More importantly, I wish to convey my deepest appreciation to victim survivors and the Catholic faithful for their patience as they waited for the release of this unprecedented and significant document. You can find it here. “A report of this magnitude will require thoughtful prayer and consideration. Reading it will be painful, but let us do it together. Reflection and prayer are necessary for the healing our Church community seeks and needs. It is my hope that the publication of this information will be another step in healing our wounded Church and that it will serve as an opportunity for reform and renewal.”###
To access information about the diocese’s Office of Child Protection and Safe Environment, click here. To learn more about the actions Bishop Knestout and the diocese have taken to provide accountability in our local Church, click here. [post_title] => Statement from Bishop Knestout in Response to Today’s Released Vatican Report Regarding Theodore E. McCarrick [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-statement [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-11-10 16:25:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-11-10 21:25:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124713 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [48] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124668 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-11-07 21:54:45 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-11-08 02:54:45 [post_content] =>Mass, Holy Hour Pinnacle of Bicentennial Eucharistic Congress
By Brian Olszewski November 7, 2020 While much of the Diocese of Richmond’s first Eucharistic Congress was virtual, the Mass and the Holy Hour on Saturday morning, Nov. 7, were live. The Mass at St. Peter’s Church, Richmond, was concelebrated by Bishop Barry C. Knestout, Archbishop Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States; Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore, Cardinal-designate Willton D. Gregory of Washingon; Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of Arlington, and several other bishops. [caption id="attachment_124690" align="aligncenter" width="600"]###
[post_title] => Mass, Holy Hour Highlight Eucharistic Congress [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => mass-holy-hour-highlight-eucharistic-congress [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-11-09 15:29:44 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-11-09 20:29:44 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124668 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [49] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124656 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-11-07 20:49:25 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-11-08 01:49:25 [post_content] => November 7, 2020 WASHINGTON – Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued the following statement on the 2020 presidential election: We thank God for the blessings of liberty. The American people have spoken in this election. Now is the time for our leaders to come together in a spirit of national unity and to commit themselves to dialogue and compromise for the common good. As Catholics and Americans, our priorities and mission are clear. We are here to follow Jesus Christ, to bear witness to His love in our lives, and to build His Kingdom on earth. I believe that at this moment in American history, Catholics have a special duty to be peacemakers, to promote fraternity and mutual trust, and to pray for a renewed spirit of true patriotism in our country. Democracy requires that all of us conduct ourselves as people of virtue and self-discipline. It requires that we respect the free expression of opinions and that we treat one another with charity and civility, even as we might disagree deeply in our debates on matters of law and public policy. As we do this, we recognize that Joseph R. Biden, Jr., has received enough votes to be elected the 46th President of the United States. We congratulate Mr. Biden and acknowledge that he joins the late President John F. Kennedy as the second United States president to profess the Catholic faith. We also congratulate Sen. Kamala D. Harris of California, who becomes the first woman ever elected as vice president. We ask the Blessed Virgin Mary, patroness of this great nation, to intercede for us. May she help us to work together to fulfill the beautiful vision of America’s missionaries and founders — one nation under God, where the sanctity of every human life is defended and freedom of conscience and religion are guaranteed.###
[post_title] => President of U.S. Bishops’ Conference Issues Statement on 2020 Presidential Election [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-u-s-bishops-conference-issues-statement-on-2020-presidential-election [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-11-07 20:49:27 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-11-08 01:49:27 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124656 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [50] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124660 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-11-07 20:48:34 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-11-08 01:48:34 [post_content] => 7 de noviembre de 2020 WASHINGTON- El arzobispo José H. Gomez, de Los Ángeles, y presidente de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Estados Unidos emitió la siguiente declaración sobre las elecciones presidenciales de 2020: Damos gracias a Dios por la bendición de la libertad. El pueblo estadounidense ha hablado en esta elección. Ahora es el momento de que nuestros líderes se reúnan con espíritu de unidad nacional y se dispongan a dialogar y a comprometerse por el bienestar común. Como católicos y estadounidenses, nuestras prioridades y misión son claras. Estamos aquí para seguir a Jesucristo, dar testimonio de su amor en nuestras vidas y construir su Reino en la tierra. Creo que en este momento de la historia de Estados Unidos, los católicos tienen el deber especial de ser pacificadores, promover la fraternidad y la confianza mutua y orar por un espíritu renovado de verdadero patriotismo en nuestro país. La democracia requiere que todos nosotros nos comportemos como personas virtuosas y autodisciplinarias. Eso requiere que respetemos la libre expresión de opiniones y que nos tratemos los unos a los otros con caridad y civismo, aunque podamos estar profundamente en desacuerdo en nuestros debates sobre cuestiones de leyes y políticas públicas. Al hacer esto, reconocemos que Joseph R. Biden, Jr., ha recibido suficientes votos para ser elegido el 46º presidente de Estados Unidos. Felicitamos al Sr. Biden y reconocemos que se une al difunto presidente John F. Kennedy como el segundo presidente de Estados Unidos en profesar la fe católica. También felicitamos a la Senadora Kamala D. Harris, de California, quien se convierte en la primera mujer en la historia elegida como vicepresidenta. Le pedimos a la Santísima Virgen María, patrona de esta gran nación, que interceda por nosotros. Que ella nos ayude a trabajar juntos para cumplir la hermosa visión de los misioneros y fundadores de Estados Unidos: una nación bajo Dios, donde se defiende la santidad de cada vida humana y se garantiza la libertad de conciencia y religión”.###
[post_title] => Presidente de la USCCB emite un comunicado sobre las elecciones presidenciales de 2020 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => presidente-de-la-usccb-emite-un-comunicado-sobre-las-elecciones-presidenciales-de-2020 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-11-07 20:48:34 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-11-08 01:48:34 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124660 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [51] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124651 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-11-06 16:41:21 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-11-06 21:41:21 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: November 6, 2020Catholic Diocese of Richmond Holds First Eucharistic Congress as Part of Bicentennial Celebration
Highlights Include Keynote Presentation from Cardinal-Designate Wilton D. Gregory, Virtual Mass and Holy Hour
(RICHMOND, Va.) - The Catholic Diocese of Richmond will host its first Eucharistic Congress, the pinnacle of the bicentennial celebration in 2020, during the weekend of Nov. 6-7. Originally planned to take place at the Richmond Convention Center, the event was adapted to meet COVID-19 precautions to protect clergy and the faithful. [caption id="attachment_124653" align="alignright" width="412"]###
[post_title] => Catholic Diocese of Richmond Holds First Eucharistic Congress as Part of Bicentennial Celebration [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catholic-diocese-of-richmond-holds-first-eucharistic-congress-as-part-of-bicentennial-celebration [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-11-06 16:41:33 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-11-06 21:41:33 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124651 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [52] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124605 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-11-04 14:26:20 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-11-04 19:26:20 [post_content] => November 4, 2020 WASHINGTON—Three bishop chairmen of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) have issued a statement on the oral arguments held today before the Supreme Court of the United States in Fulton v. City of Philadelphia. Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski of Miami, chairman of the Committee for Religious Liberty, Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, and Bishop David A. Konderla of Tulsa, chairman of the Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage have issued the following statement: “Catholics have been called to care for children who have been orphaned, or whose parents face unique difficulties in providing care, since the earliest days of our faith. We serve all children in need, without regard to race, religion, sex, or any other characteristic. We have done this for centuries, long before any government, because we believe every single person – especially the marginalized and powerless – deserves to experience the love of Jesus and be part of a family. The same core beliefs about human dignity and the wisdom of God’s design that motivate Catholics to serve the vulnerable also shape our convictions about sex, marriage, and the right of children to a mother and a father. These commitments are inseparable. “Today the Supreme Court heard arguments in a challenge to government exclusion of Catholics from providing foster care because we engage in this ministry as Catholics – that is, consistent with Church teaching on marriage and family. We pray the Court’s ruling will fulfill the First Amendment’s promise that religious believers may bring the full vitality of their faith to the public square, and will reject a hollowed-out pluralism that permits people of faith only to preach but not to practice.” On June 3, 2020, the USCCB filed an amicus curiae brief in support of Sharonell Fulton, Toni Lynn Simms-Busch, and Catholic Social Services, which may be found at: https://www.usccb.org/about/general-counsel/amicus-briefs/upload/2020-06%20Ful_v_CoPA_SupCrt_AmicusBrf_FINAL.pdf.###
[post_title] => Bishop Chairmen Urge the Supreme Court to Preserve the Right of Catholic Foster Care Agencies to Serve [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-chairmen-urge-the-supreme-court-to-preserve-the-right-of-catholic-foster-care-agencies-to-serve [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-11-04 14:26:20 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-11-04 19:26:20 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124605 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [53] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124530 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-10-29 14:41:15 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-10-29 18:41:15 [post_content] => The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated for Caroline Mae (née Lucci) Knestout on Wednesday, Oct. 28. Mrs. Knestout, mother of Bishop Knestout, passed away peacefully at age 93 on Wednesday, Oct. 21, surrounded by her family. [caption id="attachment_124532" align="aligncenter" width="494"]John 14: 1-3
Let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me.
In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, would I have told you that I go and prepare a place for you? And when I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.
###
[post_title] => Bishop Knestout Celebrates Mass of Christian Burial for His Mother, Caroline Knestout [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-celebrates-mass-of-christian-burial-for-his-mother-caroline-knestout [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-10-29 16:09:39 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-10-29 20:09:39 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124530 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [54] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124514 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-10-26 15:01:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-10-26 19:01:07 [post_content] => October 26, 2020 I offer warm congratulations to Cardinal-designate Wilton D. Gregory, Archbishop of Washington, on his elevation to the College of Cardinals. Through this appointment, the Holy Father has named the first African American a cardinal, which is a significant event in the life of the universal Church. I am praying for the continued leadership of Cardinal-designate Gregory’s ministry during this joyous time and beyond.###
[post_title] => Statement from Bishop Knestout on the Appointment of Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory to the College of Cardinals [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-from-bishop-knestout-on-the-appointment-of-archbishop-wilton-d-gregory-to-the-college-of-cardinals [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-10-26 15:04:29 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-10-26 19:04:29 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124514 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [55] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124501 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-10-26 10:46:51 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-10-26 14:46:51 [post_content] => October 25, 2020 WASHINGTON—Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a statement following the naming of Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory of Washington to the College of Cardinals by Pope Francis today. Archbishop Gomez’s full statement follows: “By naming Archbishop Wilton Gregory as a Cardinal, Pope Francis is sending a powerful message of hope and inclusion to the Church in the United States. As a former president of our national bishops’ conference, Archbishop Gregory displayed generous and principled leadership. The naming of the first African American cardinal from the United States gives us an opportunity to pause and offer thanks for the many gifts African American Catholics have given the Church. Please join me in praying for the continued ministry of Archbishop Gregory.”###
[post_title] => Statement of U.S. Bishops’ President Upon the Naming of Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory to the College of Cardinals [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-of-u-s-bishops-president-upon-the-naming-of-archbishop-wilton-d-gregory-to-the-college-of-cardinals [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-10-26 10:46:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-10-26 14:46:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124501 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [56] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124485 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-10-24 13:03:40 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-10-24 17:03:40 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: October 24, 2020Bishop Barry C. Knestout Statement Following Recent News Coverage of Pope Francis’ Film “Francesco” and Comments Within the Film Regarding Civil Unions
(RICHMOND, Va.) – I’d like to take this opportunity to provide clarity on recent reports shared about the Holy Father and comments attributed to him in a documentary film titled “Francesco.” Context is crucial in understanding what Pope Francis said. As we learn more in which the manner of the 20 second clip is edited, it’s important to remember there has been no change in Catholic Church teaching regarding marriage. The reflections by the Holy Father were not statements within an encyclical, apostolic letter nor has there been any adjustment to the Catechism of the Catholic Church.* Our Holy Father has consistently upheld church teaching that marriage is between a man and a woman. (CCC 1660) Nothing he is reported to have said should indicate that he strayed from that teaching. What should be noted in his words are the pastoral care and concern that he expresses. His statement is in keeping with the Church’s teaching that all people are to be treated with the dignity, respect and compassion that is rooted in the Gospel, since we are all created in God’s image. (CCC 2358). Let us continue to hold the Holy Father in prayer.###
*The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) is a book containing the fundamental beliefs and essential content of Catholic faith and morals. [post_title] => Statement from Bishop Knestout Concerning Remarks Attributed to Pope Francis [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-from-bishop-knestout-concerning-remarks-attributed-to-pope-francis [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-10-24 13:03:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-10-24 17:03:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124485 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [57] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124480 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-10-23 13:04:20 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-10-23 17:04:20 [post_content] => WASHINGTON (CNS) —As it did in 2016, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is encouraging people of faith to take part in an election novena beginning Oct. 26 and ending Nov. 3, Election Day. A closing prayer for elected leaders will be offered Nov. 4, the day after the election. “Bearing in mind our nation’s challenges and the need for wise, moral, civic leadership, four years ago our conference offered an electronic ‘Election Novena’ to help Catholics prepare for the 2016 election,” the USCCB said. “Shared through social media and various email lists, the prayer effort was widely popular with the laity and very much appreciated by clergy, who are often asked to promote more partisan or issue-specific prayer campaigns,” it added in a letter sent by about a dozen USCCB committee chairmen to all U.S. bishops. The signers’ committees represent the broad range of issues reflected in the novena intentions: cultural diversity, migration, international and domestic justice and peace, pro-life activities, racism, Catholic education, catechesis and evangelization, the promotion and defense of marriage, religious liberty, and family life and youth. The website https://www.usccb.org/2020-election-novena has the daily intentions, a link to sign up to receive the intentions daily by email as well as links to PDFs of the intentions in English and Spanish and to other resources including the bishops’ quadrennial statement: “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.” Participants are encouraged to pray one Our Father, one Hail Mary and one Glory Be after each day’s intention. The daily intentions are as follows: Day One, Monday, Oct. 26: As we prepare for the national, state and local elections, in the midst of a global pandemic, may our political engagement be guided by our Catholic faith. Day Two, Tuesday, Oct. 27: In this month of the Holy Rosary, may Our Blessed Mother guide us in confronting racial inequalities and restoring peace in our communities. Day Three, Wednesday, Oct. 28: May all Americans recall the necessity of dialogue, civility and humility in this election season. Day Four, Thursday, Oct. 29: May all people understand the moral and ethical dimensions of political decisions and decide accordingly. Day Five, Friday, Oct. 30: May voters and elected leaders uphold the dignity of every human life in their political engagement. Day Six, Saturday, Oct. 31: May Catholics recall all aspects of Catholic social teaching as they consider their votes. Day Seven, Sunday, Nov. 1: May there be a transformation of politics to focus on the dignity of the human person and the common good. Day Eight, Monday, Nov. 2: May we keep in mind the gift of religious freedom and our duty to defend and exercise it as faithful citizens. Day Nine, Tuesday, Nov. 3: Today, as we approach the polls, may we understand and embrace the principles of our faith that should guide our political engagement. The closing prayer for Nov. 4 is: May the leaders elected this week be guided by the Holy Spirit as they fulfill their positions. [post_title] => Election Novena will begin on Oct. 26 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => election-novena-will-begin-on-oct-26 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-10-23 13:04:20 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-10-23 17:04:20 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124480 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [58] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124363 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2020-10-15 10:34:08 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-10-15 14:34:08 [post_content] => Para su publicación inmediata: 15 de octubre de 2020Independent Reconciliation Program Concludes for Catholic Diocese of Richmond
La Administradora del Programa Independiente Ofrece Pagos Monetarios a las Víctimas Sobrevivientes Elegibles
La Diócesis de Richmond publicó hoy un informe resumido que concluye su Programa de Reconciliación Independiente ("Programa") - un programa diseñado para ayudar en la sanación de quienes fueron abusados sexualmente como menores por clero católico. El programa, administrado independientemente, se anunció el 17 de febrero de 2020 y se concluyó el 15 de octubre de 2020. En total, el Programa proporcionó compensación a 51 personas que calificaron según los criterios del Programa. Los fondos para el Programa de Reconciliación Independiente fueron provistos por el Programa de Seguros de la Diócesis de Richmond, un préstamo y contribuciones de órdenes religiosas, cuando fue apropiado. Para financiar el Programa no se utilizó ningún dinero destinado para las parroquias, la Campaña Anual Diocesana, la campaña "Vivir Nuestra Misión", tampoco se usó la dotación o contribución restringida de los donantes. Para leer el informe resumido del Programa, visite. "Este Programa es una forma de contrición a través del cual nuestra iglesia está tratando de reparar el daño y superar el distanciamiento que ha ocurrido debido al abuso sexual de menores por parte del clero", dijo el Obispo Barry C. Knestout. "Es parte del compromiso que hice hace más de dos años de que la Diócesis de Richmond proveería una señal tangible, una expresión práctica para lograr la sanación de las víctimas sobrevivientes. Aunque ningún pago monetario compensará jamás lo que experimentaron las víctimas sobrevivientes, creo que el Programa de Reconciliación Independiente es una forma y el mejor curso para que nuestra diócesis exprese justicia". Todos los detalles del Programa fueron manejados por la Administradora de Reclamos Independientes, Lynn Crowder Greer de BrownGreer PLC, una firma con base en Richmond que se especializa en programas de reclamos importantes. Las víctimas sobrevivientes presentaron sus reclamos a BrownGreer y la Administradora de Reclamos determinó quiénes recibirían las ofertas y en qué cantidad. La Diócesis de Richmond no tuvo ninguna participación en la evaluación de los reclamos ni en los montos monetarios ofrecidos por cada reclamo. El Obispo Knestout anima a quien conozca algún caso de mala conducta o abuso por parte de un clérigo o representante de la diócesis a que lo denuncie. La persona que haya sido abusada sexualmente por un sacerdote, diácono, religioso, empleado laico o voluntario de la diócesis debe denunciar el abuso directamente a las autoridades correspondientes: a los Servicios de Protección Infantil (CPS, por sus siglas en Inglés) al 1-800-552-7096, y llamar a la Línea Directa de Abuso del Clero del Procurador General al 1-833-454-9064. También se anima a los individuos a que llamen al número confidencial de 24 horas de Asistencia a las Víctimas al 1-877-887-9603 o escriban al correo electrónico vac@richmonddiocese.org para denunciar casos de abuso sexual. La diócesis de Richmond continúa proporcionando recursos a las víctimas sobrevivientes para ayudarles en su proceso de sanación. Para más información, por favor visite: www.assistance.richmonddiocese.org.###
[post_title] => Concluye el Programa de Reconciliación Independiente para la Diócesis Católica de Richmond [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => concluye-el-programa-de-reconciliacion-independiente-para-la-diocesis-catolica-de-richmond [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-10-15 10:37:19 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-10-15 14:37:19 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124363 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [59] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124351 [post_author] => 15 [post_date] => 2020-10-15 08:53:34 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-10-15 12:53:34 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: October 15, 2020 Independent Program Administrator Distributes Monetary Payments to Qualifying Victim Survivors The Catholic Diocese of Richmond today released a summary report concluding its Independent Reconciliation Program (“Program”) - a Program designed to assist in the healing of those who endured child sexual abuse committed by Catholic clergy. The independently administered program was announced Feb. 17, 2020 and concluded Oct. 15, 2020. In total, the Program provided compensation to 51 individuals who qualified under the Program’s criteria. Funds for the Independent Reconciliation Program came through the Catholic Diocese of Richmond’s self-insurance program, a loan and contributions from other religious orders, where appropriate. No money contributed to parish offertories, the Annual Diocesan Appeal, the Living our Mission campaign or any donor-restricted endowments or contributions was used to fund the Program. To read the Program summary report, visit: https://assistance.richmonddiocese.org/ “This Program is a form of contrition through which our church is trying to repair the injury and overcome the estrangement that has occurred due to clergy sexual abuse of minors,” said Bishop Barry C. Knestout. “It is part of the commitment I made more than two years ago that the Diocese of Richmond would provide a tangible sign, a practical expression to bring about healing for victim survivors. While no monetary payment will ever compensate for what victim survivors experienced, I believe the Independent Reconciliation Program is one way and the best course for our diocese to express justice.” All Program details were handled by the independent Claims Administrator, Lynn Crowder Greer of BrownGreer PLC, a Richmond-based firm that specializes in major claims programs. Victim survivors submitted claims to BrownGreer and the Claims Administrator determined who would receive offers and in what amount. The Diocese of Richmond did not have any input into the evaluation of claims or the monetary amounts offered for each claim. Bishop Knestout encourages anyone who knows of any misconduct or abuse on the part of a cleric or representative of the diocese to report it. Individuals who have been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, religious, lay employee or volunteer of the diocese should report abuse directly to law enforcement, including Child Protective Services (CPS) at 1-800-552-7096, and by calling the Attorney General’s Clergy Abuse Hotline at 1-833-454-9064. Individuals are also encouraged to contact the 24-hour confidential Victim’s Assistance Reporting number at 1-877-887-9603 or email vac@richmonddiocese.org to report sexual abuse. The diocese continues to provide resources to victim survivors to assist them on their journey toward healing. To find more information please visit: www.assistance.richmonddiocese.org. [post_title] => Independent Reconciliation Program Concludes for Catholic Diocese of Richmond [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => independent-reconciliation-program-concludes-for-catholic-diocese-of-richmond [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-10-15 10:35:56 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-10-15 14:35:56 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124351 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [60] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124248 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-10-05 16:16:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-10-05 20:16:00 [post_content] => On Sunday, Oct. 4, Bishop Knestout traveled to Crozet, where he officially named the existing Crozet Catholic Community to Our Lady of the Rosary in honor of the upcoming feast of Our Lady of the Rosary on Oct. 7. He celebrated 1:30 p.m. Mass at the Crozet Baptist Church, which the community has been using the building since March due to COVID-19 restrictions. Following Mass, Bishop Knestout and about 40 members of the community walked to a site where they hope they will one day purchase land to build a church. During the walk, Msgr. Timothy Keeney, pastor of the mission, and Father Chris Masla, parochial vicar, led the group in praying a decade of the rosary and chanted the Litany of Saints. At the site, Bishop blessed the people gathered. This is the first naming of a Catholic community since Bishop Knestout was installed as Bishop of Richmond. (Photos/Mark Gormus) [caption id="attachment_124249" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ President Welcomes "Fratelli Tutti," Pope Francis’ Encyclical on Human Fraternity [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-president-welcomes-fratelli-tutti-pope-francis-encyclical-on-human-fraternity [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-10-05 14:59:35 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-10-05 18:59:35 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124221 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [62] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124228 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-10-01 15:07:05 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-10-01 19:07:05 [post_content] => October 1, 2020 WASHINGTON - As soon as today, the U.S. House of Representatives will consider House Democrats’ new COVID-19 aid package, the revised Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions (HEROES) Act. The bill includes $225 billion for education, including $182 billion for K-12 schools. However, the bill provides no equitable services for students in non-public schools and maintains language that prohibits any funds from being used to provide financial assistance to non-public school children. This has the effect of excluding virtually any aid to students, families, and teachers in non-public schools. Bishop Michael C. Barber, SJ of Oakland, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Catholic Education, made the following statement: “The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all Americans, including those whose children are enrolled in Catholic and non-public schools. It is unconscionable that this latest aid proposal would exclude these American children and the schools they attend from emergency aid that would ease the financial burdens they have borne as a result of the pandemic. The pandemic’s economic devastation has already led to the closure of at least 150 Catholic schools, many in low-income areas that serve children of color. Congress and the White House must come together to support emergency aid that prioritizes the health and safety of all students, including non-public school children and the nearly two million students enrolled in Catholic schools.” The USCCB supports robust education aid for all students and has asked the Congress to include the bipartisan School Choice Now proposal in any COVID aid package. School Choice Now would provide emergency tuition scholarships to hard-hit families. The USCCB has also advocated for equitable services for Catholic and other non-public schools. Non-public schools have had access to equitable services since 1965 and have been included in all recent federal emergency aid bills until now. Recent Statements by the U.S. Bishops on Emergency Relief for Catholic Schools:###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ Education Chairman Decries Exclusion of Catholic School Students and Families from Revised HEROES Act [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-education-chairman-decries-exclusion-of-catholic-school-students-and-families-from-revised-heroes-act [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-10-05 15:11:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-10-05 19:11:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124228 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [63] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124168 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-09-30 14:01:49 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-09-30 18:01:49 [post_content] => September 30, 2020 WASHINGTON – The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) will host a virtual rosary event on October 7, the Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary. Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the USCCB has called for this moment of prayer with the intention of uniting Catholics across the country at this time when there is much unrest and uncertainty. Archbishop Gomez has invited several bishops, representing the various geographical regions of the United States, to pray a part of the rosary and it will premiere on the USCCB’s YouTube channel and Facebook page on Wednesday, October 7 at 3:00 PM ET (12:00 PM PT). The faithful are encouraged to join in this prayerful moment of unity for our country, to seek healing and to ask Our Lady, on her feast, to pray for us and help lead us to Jesus, and encouraged to share where they are praying from, to post a photo of their rosary, and to leave a prayer intention for our country. The USCCB will be using the hashtag #RosaryForAmerica on its social media.###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ Virtual Rosary on the Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-virtual-rosary-on-the-memorial-of-our-lady-of-the-rosary [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-09-30 14:01:49 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-09-30 18:01:49 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124168 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [64] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124144 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-09-28 10:24:27 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-09-28 14:24:27 [post_content] => **Mass was celebrated at St. Andrew Catholic Church, Roanoke, on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. I want to begin by first highlighting the statue of St. Vincent de Paul and his relics that we have here near the sanctuary, as we celebrate this Mass and the feast of St. Vincent de Paul in anticipation today. Certainly tomorrow would normally be the feast, and we are asking all the parishes during the weekend to say this Mass as a recognition of his patronage, his prayers for us as a diocese, as a local church, and the importance of our charitable efforts - reaching out to those who are poor and vulnerable in our midst as an expression of our life as Catholics. And that’s been consistent through the history of this local Church. That statue, I am told, may have been from an orphanage that was named in honor of St. Vincent de Paul in the area. That’s an earlier occasion. I’m hoping that’s correct, but I am getting some word from one of our historians about that. I’m grateful, as I said at the beginning, for the priests who have joined us here, certainly Father Kevin as the episcopal vicar for the western region, Western Vicariate, as well as Father Mike Boehling, our vicar general, and Father Tony Marques, who is the rector of our cathedral. Priests, deacons, brothers and sisters, those in consecrated life. “Shout for joy, O daughter Zion!...The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a mighty savior; He will rejoice over you with gladness, and renew you in his love…” This reading that we hear today on this feast, “Shout for joy, O daughter Zion!” that we care within our hearts. Joy, as we express love for one another, and that joy comes from our union, communion with Christ, and is inspiring our mission to carry out the mission. Among those aspects of our mission is charity. Today we celebrate not only the third of our regional bicentennial Masses, this one for the Western Vicariate, but we do so in conjunction with the feast of St. Vincent De Paul. Today we celebrate the feast of our patron because of his own concern for the poor. He was certainly aware in his life, was interested in forming priests and those who would serve the Church, and very much had a deep love for all the poor and wanted to find ways to encourage men and women in the Church to care for the poor. How Vincent de Paul became the patron saint of the diocese is not fully known. So I’ll reflect a little bit on the history there as we also reflect on our charitable efforts in this diocese. The earliest mention of his patronage is back in 1843, during the tenure of Richard Vincent Whelan, who was the second bishop of Richmond, who in some ways was kind of the refounding bishop, after about 20 years, from 1821-1841, where there was not a local bishop. We were still reverted back to the care of the metropolitan there in the Archdiocese of Baltimore. So when Bishop Whelan was named, it is sometime during his tenure that St. Vincent de Paul became the patron of the diocese, was named such. So it is likely that Bishop Whelan is the one that named him, or at least pointed that out. Bishop Whelan’s formation for the priesthood occurred first at Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland, which also happens to be my alma mater. There, Bishop Whelan encountered the Daughters of Charity in Emmitsburg, who I believe also served here in the Western region as well as in the rest of the diocese, these Daughters of Charity. And the Daughters of Charity were under the guidance of St. Elizabeth Anne Seton. As many know, the Daughters were originally founded by St. Vincent DePaul and St. Louise de Marillac. Later, Whelan studied at St. Sulpice in France and was ordained as a priest in 1831, just a few years before he became bishop here. In 1831, he was ordained as a priest in France in Versailles. His ordination year coincided with the founding of the St. Vincent De Paul Society in France. So with these experiences in Whelan’s own background, he may have been aware, studying in France and being ordained there, may have been aware of the newly formed St. Vincent DePaul Society. If not, he certainly would have been familiar with the French schools of spirituality and with French saints. That awareness was brought to Mount Saint Mary’s and to the mountain regions of the Eastern U.S. in the 1790s by expatriates from France who were escaping the French Revolution, some of the persecutions that were occurring there against clergy. And among them was Father John DuBois, who was the founder of Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary. So Bishop Whelan, studying there, would have encountered this spirituality and had a sense and a connection with the Church in France. In the 1830s, well before he was named bishop of Richmond, Father Whelan was working in mission territories of the mountains from the Alleghenies in Pennsylvania through the Cotoctins of Maryland and to the Appalachians of West Virginia and western Virginia, here, our own regions of this diocese where we celebrate this Mass. So, he was very familiar with the situation of the Catholic Church in Virginia, and especially in its western regions. In fact, he had a great love for that, Bishop Whalen did, for the Church here. The first mention of the patronage of St. Vincent de Paul for the diocese occurs during Bishop Whelan’s tenure when the saint’s patronage was referred to indirectly as already recognized. In 1843, Bishop Whelan asked Propaganda Fide, that’s the department, the office, in Rome responsible for the oversight of mission territories. And the Church in the U.S. was mission territory for many years, I think even up until around WWII. And he asked which readings should be used in the Breviary for the feast of St. Vincent de Paul, who he indicated was patron of the Diocese of Richmond. So that’s our first indication. In 1853, Pope Pius IX, in response to a request from Whelan’s successor, Bishop John McGill, declared that Vincent de Paul remained as the patron of the Diocese of Richmond even after the Diocese of Wheeling had sprung forth from the Diocese of Richmond and was newly formed. And, of course, Bishop Whelan was named the first bishop there to govern that local Church. So there we hear early on as Bishop Whelan was transferred that St. Vincent was very much understood and recognized as the patron of this diocese. Now, it was the middle name of Bishop Whelan, his familiarity with French spirituality, knowing well of St. Vincent de Paul’s legacy of caring for the poor and disenfranchised, it was clear that because of his own personal devotion, his practical experience and recognizing what at the time was the poverty, the real challenges faced by the Church in Virginia and especially in the west. Knowing of the poverty of the people here in terms of our Church and experience, it seems very appropriate and understandable that St. Vincent de Paul would be named our patron. Because of his care for the poor and his interest in spreading the Gospel, the Good News. An example of St. Vincent’s inspiration is the presence and activity to this day of the St. Vincent de Paul Society throughout the diocese. It actually was formed here back in 1865, right after the Civil War. It formed in Virginia. And immediately in the years that followed, up to the 1920s, early 1920s, that St. Vincent de Paul Society gave rise to Catholic Charities and was actually the precursor to Catholic Charities in the diocese and all the legacies of charitable works that continue on. The Vincent de Paul Society strengthens the holiness of its members by encouraging and supporting them in a life of charity, taking place in the context of practical aid to the poor. And it seems to me that so many examples can be found of this local Church of how that practical aid to the poor is carried out and expressed and carries forward the mission of the Church in a beautiful way here. We hear in the Scriptures today, “Brothers (and sisters)…Not many of you are wise…not many are influential….not many are wellborn. God…chose the worlds lowborn and despised, those who count for nothing, to reduce to nothing those who were something; so that mankind can do no boasting before God.” So we see here the preference of sense that our mindset and our hearts should be with those who are poor and in need. The characteristics of the Catholic Church in Virginia from the 1820s to the 1840s was rural, missionary and poor — as much of it is even today in the west and throughout the diocese - there is that rural aspect to our diocese. And these demographics closely align with the ministry and legacy of Vincent de Paul. At the time of Bishop Whelan’s arrival as bishop in Richmond in 1841, there were only 9,000 Catholics through the diocese, about eight churches, six priests scattered through this whole territory that reached from the Atlantic Ocean all the way to the Ohio Valley in terms of West Virginia and Virginia today – a huge amount of territory which would be daunting under the best of circumstances and certainly at that time with the limits of transportation was a great challenge. Most of the parishes were composed at the time of Irish, French and German immigrants, who were poor and most of these, those who were gathered in ways outside of Richmond, Norfolk and Alexandria, they resided in these western regions of the diocese. And they were here because they were building infrastructure – canals, roads, and later the trains that came through, the railroads, to help in the building and the connecting of East and the West and access to that, and so very important in that legacy. We hear in the Scriptures, “Jesus toured all the towns and villages. He taught in their synagogues, he proclaimed the good news of God’s reign, and he cured every sickness and disease. At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity…” Over time, several institutions in the diocese were named after St. Vincent de Paul: schools; orphanages, as I mentioned earlier; the first Catholic hospital in Virginia, in Norfolk in 1855, which is today DePaul Medical Center; a parish church in Newport News in 1891. Now, this diocese in our own present day, even without the territory of West Virginia, has 142 parishes, almost 25 schools, nursing and elderly care facilities, two regional Catholic Charities organizations, dozens of charitable ministries – soup kitchens, food pantries, homeless shelters and Haitian ministries, just to name a few – that are carried out by our parishes and our people every day to recognize this need to be present to, care for and reach out to the poor. And to do so is integral to our mission, integral to who we are as Catholics. It seems especially suitable that the theme we emphasize today is a part of our theme for the bicentennial year - communion and mission. In a particular way, we lift up and recognize this charitable mission of the Church and the call we each receive as disciples to be instruments of charity. The Church in Richmond has always been characterized by a significant participation of lay men and women in the life and mission of the Church, especially in the area of charitable works. It was in the past and it is so now. I say that charity exercised by an active, devoted, faith-filled laity of this diocese, under the spiritual care of devoted religious and clergy, is not only the past historic legacy of the diocese, it is the aspect of the mission that has flourished the most and continues, vibrant and effective, today. So, it is especially appropriate that in commemoration of St. Vincent de Paul’s feast and his patronage, this year will not only mark this jubilee Mass, but also include an Octave of Service, even with the limits of COVID-19. An Octave of Service throughout the diocese, starting tomorrow, September 27, and going until October 4. During this eight-day period, parishes, campus ministries and schools are organizing to carry out service projects, to build within our hearts the virtue of charity, to care for the poor who are our midst, and to benefit our wider communities. Teaching the faith, celebrating the sacraments and doing works of charity is the mission of the Church. Many times in our history, we have struggled with expansive geography, with scattered numbers of Catholics, being a small minority within the commonwealth, a small percentage of the population. And we’ve struggled with the lack of enough clergy and religious to minister to the spiritual needs of God’s people here. But despite these historic struggles and challenges, as we mark 200 years, we are blessed with the generosity of clergy from all over the world, our international clergy who serve in our parishes, as well as local clergy and local vocations. We are blessed with 23 men studying for the priesthood here within the diocese, as well as the many priests who have gone before, been ordained, who serve here. So also, we are blessed with a dedicated, generous faith-filled laity. Active lay participation and large numbers of vocations, these are sure signs of devotion, spiritual maturity, in the diocese among the people of our local Church. And that gives us great hope for the future as a local Church. With gratitude today for all that has been accomplished in 200 years in works of charity in this diocese, we echo the words of the Gospel today as well. Not only do we point out and express gratitude to God for this legacy of mission, carrying out the mission of charity, but we also look to the future with hope and joy, but also anticipation of much more work yet to be done. So we repeat these words, “The harvest is good, but laborers are scarce. Beg the harvest master to send out laborers to gather his harvest.” So we do that today in our prayer in the eucharist. We do that each day as we gather, ask the Lord by his grace to assist us to carry forward that mission, that legacy we reflect on and celebrate today but also that is expressed in the present and that we’re called to carry out in the future. We ask for the intercession of St. Vincent de Paul to carry out that mission effectively with gratitude in our hearts, always with hope and with joy. **A story about the Bicentennial Regional Mass in the Western Vicariate will appear in the Oct. 5 issue of The Catholic Virginian. [post_title] => Bishop Knestout's Homily from the Bicentennial Mass in the Western Vicariate [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestouts-homily-from-the-bicentennial-mass-in-the-western-vicariate [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-09-29 10:25:27 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-09-29 14:25:27 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124144 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [65] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124086 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-09-22 15:49:50 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-09-22 19:49:50 [post_content] => September 22, 2020 WASHINGTON —Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City in Kansas, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities, issued the following statement in response to the federal executions scheduled this week: “In the last 60 years, before the Trump administration restarted federal executions, there were only four federal executions. Since July, there have been five, which is already more federal executions than were carried out in any year in the last century. There are two more federal executions scheduled this week. “After the first murder recorded in the Bible, God did not end Cain’s life, but rather preserved it, warning others not to kill Cain (Gn. 4:15). As the Church, we must give concrete help to victims of violence, and we must encourage the rehabilitation and restoration of those who commit violence. Accountability and legitimate punishment are a part of this process. Responsibility for harm is necessary if healing is to occur and can be instrumental in protecting society, but executions are completely unnecessary and unacceptable, as Popes St. John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis have all articulated. “We say to President Trump and Attorney General Barr: Enough. Stop these executions.” For additional USCCB statements and resources on the death penalty and the recent resumption of federal executions:###
[post_title] => Statement of U.S. Bishop Chairmen on Federal Executions Scheduled This Week [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-of-u-s-bishop-chairmen-on-federal-executions-scheduled-this-week [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-09-22 15:49:50 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-09-22 19:49:50 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124086 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [66] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 124063 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-09-21 16:04:18 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-09-21 20:04:18 [post_content] => On Sunday, Sept. 20, Bishop Barry C. Knestout dedicated St. Thomas Aquinas University Parish, Charlottesville, the new Romanesque-style church bordered by the University of Virginia, at the 5:15 evening Mass with approximately 300 in attendance. The Mass was concelebrated by Father Michael Boehling, vicar general; Msgr. R. Francis Muench, episcopal vicar for the Central Vicariate; Dominican Father Joseph Barranger, parish pastor; clergy from the Dominican Friars who will staff the parish; and many diocesan clergy. [caption id="attachment_124064" align="aligncenter" width="600"]![]() |
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The Virginia Catholic Conference is the public policy agency representing Virginia's Catholic bishops and their two dioceses. [post_title] => VCC Provides Voter Resources for Nov. 3 Election [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => vcc-provides-voter-resources-for-nov-3-election [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-10-11 18:15:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-10-11 22:15:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=124031 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [68] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 123950 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-09-15 17:13:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-09-15 21:13:13 [post_content] => The seven new solar projects currently underway in the Catholic Diocese of Richmond have been nominated as a “Project of the Year” from Solar Builder Magazine!###
[post_title] => Bishop Chairmen Issue Statement for Fifth World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-chairmen-issue-statement-for-fifth-world-day-of-prayer-for-the-care-of-creation [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-09-01 11:29:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-09-01 15:29:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=123772 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [71] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 123668 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-08-28 08:57:59 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-08-28 12:57:59 [post_content] => The diocesan Office for Black Catholics sponsored a Prayer Service for Racial Healing at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Richmond, on June 11, 2020. You can watch the prayer service on our YouTube channel.###
[post_title] => In Wake of Kenosha Violence, U.S. Bishops’ Chairman for Committee Against Racism Urges Day of Prayer and Fasting [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => in-wake-of-kenosha-violence-u-s-bishops-chairman-for-committee-against-racism-urges-day-of-prayer-and-fasting [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-08-28 14:21:13 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-08-28 18:21:13 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=123668 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [72] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 123658 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-08-27 14:35:40 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-08-27 18:35:40 [post_content] => August 27, 2020 WASHINGTON —Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), issued the following statement praying for the lives and safety of all those in the path of Hurricane Laura as it makes landfall in the Gulf Coast: “On behalf of my brother bishops in the United States, I am praying for the safety and well-being of everyone in the path of Hurricane Laura. May God protect their families and their homes and their livelihoods. We pray especially for first responders and health care and emergency workers. I urge our Catholic faithful and all people of good will across the country to stand in solidarity with the communities that will be hard hit by this storm and to please be generous in providing assistance. We entrust all our brothers and sisters in harm’s way to the Immaculate Heart of Mary our Blessed Mother, and we ask her intercession to lessen the damage and ease the suffering caused by this storm.”###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ President Prays for Life and Safety as Hurricane Laura Makes Landfall [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-president-prays-for-life-and-safety-as-hurricane-laura-makes-landfall [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-08-27 14:35:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-08-27 18:35:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=123658 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [73] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 123092 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-08-06 16:31:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-08-06 20:31:07 [post_content] => August 6, 2020 WASHINGTON—Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), and Bishop David J. Malloy of Rockford and chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on International Justice and Peace, issued the following statement in solidarity with Lebanon after the explosion in the Port of Beirut: “The world watched with shock and horror the catastrophic explosion in the Port of Beirut Tuesday. Over 135 have died, thousands are injured, and the suffering has only begun to be told. “Lebanon was already reeling from economic and government corruption along with the novel coronavirus pandemic. The plight of the Lebanese people is now even more dire. We received Lebanon’s patriarch, Cardinal Bechara Boutros Rai’s Appeal to the Nations of the World with fraternal love and solidarity. We encourage Catholics and all people of good will to pray for the afflicted and give generously to Catholic Relief Services’ Lebanon disaster response at www.crs.org. In addition, we call on the U.S. government to accelerate any and all humanitarian assistance to Lebanon in this hour of critical need. “Joining in Pope Francis’ prayer Wednesday that Lebanon may ‘overcome the grave crisis they are experiencing’ and beseeching the intercession of Our Lady of Lebanon, we place our sure hope in Him who reconciles all things unto himself.”###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ President and International Justice and Peace Chairman Join in Solidarity with the Suffering of Lebanon After Explosion in the Port of Beirut [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-president-and-international-justice-and-peace-chairman-join-in-solidarity-with-the-suffering-of-lebanon-after-explosion-in-the-port-of-beirut [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-08-06 16:31:07 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-08-06 20:31:07 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=123092 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [74] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 123647 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-08-03 09:47:05 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-08-03 13:47:05 [post_content] => Bishop Knestout has written a letter to the faithful about the Diocese of Richmond's ongoing response to the abuse crisis and the steps the diocese has taken to ensure the protection of children and rebuild trust in the Church. Please read Bishop's letter here. [post_title] => Accountability in the Church: A Letter to the Faithful from Bishop Knestout [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => accountability-in-the-church-a-letter-to-the-faithful-from-bishop-knestout [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-08-27 09:52:22 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-08-27 13:52:22 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=123647 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [75] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 123033 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-07-31 11:43:38 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-07-31 15:43:38 [post_content] => July 31, 2020 WASHINGTON – Catholic schools, especially those serving urban areas have been disproportionately impacted in the ongoing fallout of the novel coronavirus. Three bishop chairmen of committees of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) have sent a letter to Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA), the chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus, requesting support for black families in Catholic schools as the U.S. Congress debates the next COVID relief package. Bishop Michael C. Barber, S.J. of Oakland and chairman of the Committee on Catholic Education, Bishop Shelton J. Fabre of Houma-Thibodaux and chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism, and Bishop Joseph N. Perry, auxiliary bishop of Chicago and chairman of the Subcommittee on African American Affairs addressed the crisis facing Catholic schools, especially those serving urban areas, and asked members of the Congressional Black Caucus to support aid to low-income families in the form of tuition scholarships. “As the impact of the coronavirus has disproportionately affected the black community, the same is true for our Catholic schools that serve predominately black communities, and we are imploring your help for these families who have sought a Catholic education for their children,” the bishops wrote. They continued, “Catholic schools are facing a crisis at this very moment. Over one hundred-thirty schools have already announced permanent closure, including schools in Chicago, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Boston, New Jersey, and New York. These closures are disproportionately harmful to low-income and black children that are educated in urban schools. A recent survey of Catholic school principals showed that currently 10% are uncertain about their ability to open in the fall; this equals over 500 Catholic schools and thousands of families in turmoil. Strong action from Congress could provide these families and schools the confidence they need to stay in the Catholic school of their choice.” The letter asked for Congress to designate emergency funding for direct scholarship aid to low-middle income private school families. Total enrollment in Catholic schools nationally for the current academic year is 1,737,297, across approximately 6,183 schools. Racial minorities comprise 21.8% of total enrollment, and 19.1% of all students are non-Catholic. The full letter to Congress can be found here. [post_title] => Bishop Chairmen Urge Congressional Black Caucus Leaders to Support Federal Emergency Relief for Urban Catholic School Students [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-chairmen-urge-congressional-black-caucus-leaders-to-support-federal-emergency-relief-for-urban-catholic-school-students [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-07-31 11:43:38 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-07-31 15:43:38 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=123033 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [76] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122995 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-07-29 12:41:56 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-07-29 16:41:56 [post_content] => July 29, 2020 WASHINGTON – The United Nations designated July 30 as the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons in 2013 to raise awareness of the devastating impact human trafficking has on women, men, and children and to promote survivors’ rights and human dignity. The international day is observed annually in the United States and throughout the world. There are nearly 25 million individuals trapped in modern-day slavery, according to the International Labor Organization. Human trafficking a “crime against humanity,” Pope Francis has said, because it is “an unjustifiable violation of the victims’ freedom and dignity, which are integral dimensions of the human person willed and created by God.” Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville, auxiliary bishop of Washington and chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Migration issued the following statement: “Today we take a moment to pray for all victims and survivors of human trafficking and to reflect upon our responsibilities as individuals and as a Church to make their well-being and protection a priority. We are renewing our call to educating about human trafficking and proclaiming the value of all human life. Pope Francis reminds us that ‘it is the responsibility of all to denounce these injustices and to firmly oppose this shameful crime.’ We are called by our Holy Father to take a firm stance against this terrible violation of the dignity of the human person and to do everything in our power to eradicate it.” To commemorate this day and highlight Catholic organizations working to prevent and eliminate all forms of human trafficking, the USCCB will host a webinar at 1pm Eastern on July 30. Registration for the webinar can be found here and resources on raising awareness and fighting trafficking may be found on the Justice for Immigrants website and www.usccb.org/stopslavery.###
[post_title] => Migration Chairman Calls for Prayers for Trafficking Survivors [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => migration-chairman-calls-for-prayers-for-trafficking-survivors [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-07-29 12:41:56 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-07-29 16:41:56 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122995 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [77] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122927 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-07-24 11:00:45 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-07-24 15:00:45 [post_content] => July 22, 2020 WASHINGTON — Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski of Miami, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Religious Liberty, and Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, issued the following statement in response to reports of increasing incidents of church vandalism and fires: “In the last few weeks, we have witnessed, among other things, one church rammed with a car and set on fire, as well as statues of Jesus Christ and of the Virgin Mary defaced or even beheaded. An historic mission church has also been badly damaged by fire, and the cause is still under investigation. “Whether those who committed these acts were troubled individuals crying out for help or agents of hate seeking to intimidate, the attacks are signs of a society in need of healing. “In those incidents where human actions are clear, the motives still are not. As we strain to understand the destruction of these holy symbols of selfless love and devotion, we pray for any who have caused it, and we remain vigilant against more of it. “Our nation finds itself in an extraordinary hour of cultural conflict. The path forward must be through the compassion and understanding practiced and taught by Jesus and his Holy Mother. Let us contemplate, rather than destroy, images of these examples of God’s love. Following the example of Our Lord, we respond to confusion with understanding and to hatred with love.”###
[post_title] => Bishop Chairmen Condemn Acts of Vandalism, Destruction at Catholic Sites [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-chairmen-condemn-acts-of-vandalism-destruction-at-catholic-sites [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-07-24 11:00:45 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-07-24 15:00:45 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122927 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [78] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122914 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-07-24 10:23:25 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-07-24 14:23:25 [post_content] => Brian T. Olszewski, Janna Reynolds, The Catholic Virginian “Necessity is the mother of invention.” – Plato For parishes in the Diocese of Richmond, one of the “inventions” to surface as a result of COVID-19 was the use of technology in order to stay connected with parishioners once Bishop Barry C. Knestout suspended the celebration of public Masses on March 16. [caption id="attachment_124547" align="alignleft" width="335"]###
[post_title] => USCCB Chairmen Welcome Supreme Court Decision Preserving the Religious Liberty of Little Sisters [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => usccb-chairmen-welcome-supreme-court-decision-preserving-the-religious-liberty-of-little-sisters [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-07-08 13:47:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-07-08 17:47:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122641 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [84] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122534 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-07-01 17:01:51 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-07-01 21:01:51 [post_content] =>###
[post_title] => Bishop Knestout Announces Clergy Appointments [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => 2020-clergy-appointments [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-07-13 11:43:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-07-13 15:43:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122527 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [86] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122486 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-06-30 12:50:17 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-06-30 16:50:17 [post_content] => June 30, 2020 WASHINGTON – Today, the Supreme Court of the United States issued its decision in the case of Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue, which challenged a decision by the Montana Supreme Court to invalidate a tax credit scholarship program because families benefiting include those who choose to send their children to religiously-affiliated schools, a violation of the Montana state constitution’s “Blaine Amendment” of 1889 against aid to religious schools. By vote of 5-4, the Court ruled in favor of the petitioners. Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski of Miami, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee for Religious Liberty, and Bishop Michael C. Barber, S.J. of Oakland, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Catholic Education, have issued a statement: “The Court has rightly ruled that the U.S. Constitution does not permit states to discriminate against religion. This decision means that religious persons and organizations can, like everyone else, participate in government programs that are open to all. This is good news, not only for people of faith, but for our country. A strong civil society needs the full participation of religious institutions. By ensuring the rights of faith-based organizations’ freedom to serve, the Court is also promoting the common good. “The Court has also dealt a blow to the odious legacy of anti-Catholicism in America. Blaine Amendments, which are in 37 states’ constitutions, were the product of nativism and bigotry. They were never meant to ensure government neutrality towards religion, but were expressions of hostility toward the Catholic Church. We are grateful that the Supreme Court has taken an important step that will help bring an end to this shameful legacy.” The USCCB filed an amicus curiae brief supporting the petitioners, which can be found here: http://www.usccb.org/about/general-counsel/amicus-briefs/upload/Laycock-Berg-CLS-Amicus-Brief.pdf.###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ Religious Liberty and Catholic Education Chairmen Grateful for Supreme Court’s Decision in Blaine Amendment Case [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-religious-liberty-and-catholic-education-chairmen-grateful-for-supreme-courts-decision-in-blaine-amendment-case [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-06-30 12:50:17 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-06-30 16:50:17 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122486 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [87] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122470 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-06-29 15:36:08 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-06-29 19:36:08 [post_content] => June 29, 2020 WASHINGTON– Today, the Supreme Court of the United States announced its decision in an abortion case out of Louisiana, June Medical Services v. Russo. The Court ruled 5 to 4 to strike down the Louisiana law that requires abortion doctors to have hospital admitting privileges. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City in Kansas and chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee for Pro-Life Activities issued the following statement: “Abortion violently ends the life of a child, and often severely harms women. Abortion becomes even more destructive when basic health and safety standards are ignored, and profit margins are prioritized over women’s lives. As Catholics, we condemn abortion as a grave injustice that denies the fundamental human right to life. Yet even as we seek to end the brutality of legalized abortion, we still believe that the women who seek it should not be further harmed and abused by a callous, profit-driven industry. “The Court’s failure to recognize the legitimacy of laws prioritizing women’s health and safety over abortion business interests continues a cruel precedent. As we grieve this decision and the pregnant women who will be harmed by it, we continue to pray and fight for justice for mothers and children. “We will not rest until the day when the Supreme Court corrects the grave injustice of Roe and Casey and recognizes the Constitutional right to life for unborn human beings. And we continue to ask all people of faith to pray for women seeking abortion, often under enormous pressure, that they will find alternatives that truly value them and the lives of their children.” The USCCB filed an amicus curae brief in the case along with the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops and the National Association of Evangelicals urging the Court to uphold the law. The brief can be viewed here: http://www.usccb.org/about/general-counsel/amicus-briefs/upload/18-1323-USCCB-amicus-June-Med-v-Gee-12-30-2019.pdf###
[post_title] => Catholic Bishops’ Pro-Life Chairman Says Supreme Court Decision Continues Cruel Precedent of Prioritizing Abortion Business Interests Over Women’s Health and Safety [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catholic-bishops-pro-life-chairman-says-supreme-court-decision-continues-cruel-precedent-of-prioritizing-abortion-business-interests-over-womens-health-and-safety [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-06-29 15:36:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-06-29 19:36:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122470 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [88] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122321 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-06-23 14:19:22 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-06-23 18:19:22 [post_content] => Religious Freedom Week is a call for all Catholics to pray for and uphold religious freedom nationally and globally. This year's theme is "For the Good of All." Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski of Miami, the acting chairman of the USCCB's Committee for Religious Liberty said, in part, that "religious freedom is the human right that guarantees all other rights — peace and creative living together will only be possible if freedom of religion is fully respected.” You can read Archbishop's Wenski's full statement here. Bishop Knestout encourages the faithful of the Diocese of Richmond to join him this week in praying especially for the protection of religious freedom around the world. If you need some ideas for your own daily intentions, here are some ideas from the USCCB:![]() |
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[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ Religious Liberty Chairman Announces Religious Freedom Week from June 22-29, 2020 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-religious-liberty-chairman-announces-religious-freedom-week-from-june-22-29-2020 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-06-23 09:33:44 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-06-23 13:33:44 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122319 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [90] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122265 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-06-16 11:04:31 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-06-16 15:04:31 [post_content] => 15 de junio del 2020 WASHINGTON — El presidente de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Estados Unidos (USCCB), arzobispo José H. Gomez, de Los Ángeles, hizo una declaración sobre la decisión emitida hoy por la Corte Suprema de Estados Unidos, que combina los casos Bostock v. Clayton County, Ga., Altitude Express v. Zarda, y R.G. & G.R. Harris Funeral Homes vs. Equal Opportunity Employment Comm’n. Los jueces dictaminaron que la prohibición de discriminación por "sexo" en el empleo en el Título VII de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964 ahora prohíbe la discriminación basada en la "orientación sexual" y el estado de "transgénero". A continuación, el comunicado del arzobispo Gomez: “Estoy profundamente preocupado de que la Corte Suprema de Estados Unidos haya redefinido efectivamente el significado legal de ‘sexo’ en la ley de derechos civiles de nuestra nación. Esta es una injusticia que tendrá implicaciones en muchas áreas de la vida. Al borrar las hermosas diferencias y la relación complementaria entre el hombre y la mujer, ignoramos la gloria de la creación de Dios y dañamos a la familia humana, la base fundamental de la sociedad. Nuestro sexo, ya sea hombre o mujer, es parte del plan de Dios para la creación y para nuestras vidas. Como el Papa Francisco nos ha enseñado con tanta sensibilidad, vivir en la verdad con los dones previstos de Dios en nuestras vidas requiere que recibamos nuestra identidad corporal y sexual con gratitud de nuestro Creador. Nadie puede encontrar la verdadera felicidad siguiendo un camino contrario al plan de Dios. Toda persona humana está hecha a imagen y semejanza de Dios y, sin excepción, debe ser tratada con dignidad, compasión y respeto. Proteger a nuestros vecinos de la discriminación injusta no requiere redefinir la naturaleza humana. Oramos para que la Iglesia, con la ayuda de María, la Madre de Dios, pueda continuar su misión de llevar a Jesucristo a cada hombre y mujer”. El 23 de agosto de 2019, la USCCB, junto con otras organizaciones religiosas nacionales, presentó escritos amicus curiae en estos casos. Ellos están disponibles en los siguientes enlaces: http://www.usccb.org/about/general-counsel/amicus-briefs/upload/Bostock-8-23-19.pdf y http://www.usccb.org/about/general-counsel/amicus-briefs/upload/Harris-8-23-19.pdf.###
[post_title] => Comunicado del Presidente de la Conferencia Episcopal con Relación a la Decisión de la Corte Suprema de Estados Unidos sobre la Definición Legal de "Sexo" en la Ley de Derechos Civiles [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => comunicado-del-presidente-de-la-conferencia-episcopal-con-relacion-a-la-decision-de-la-corte-suprema-de-estados-unidos-sobre-la-definicion-legal-de-sexo-en-la-ley-de-derechos-civiles [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-06-16 11:04:31 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-06-16 15:04:31 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122265 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [91] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122261 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-06-16 11:01:17 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-06-16 15:01:17 [post_content] => June 15, 2020 WASHINGTON — The president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, provided a statement on the decision issued today by the Supreme Court of the United States – combining Bostock v. Clayton County, Ga., Altitude Express v. Zarda, and R.G. & G.R. Harris Funeral Homes v. Equal Opportunity Employment Comm’n. The justices ruled that the prohibition on “sex” discrimination in employment in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 now prohibits discrimination based on “sexual orientation” and “transgender” status. Archbishop Gomez’s statement follows:I am deeply concerned that the U.S. Supreme Court has effectively redefined the legal meaning of ‘sex’ in our nation’s civil rights law. This is an injustice that will have implications in many areas of life. By erasing the beautiful differences and complementary relationship between man and woman, we ignore the glory of God’s creation and harm the human family, the first building block of society. Our sex, whether we are male or female, is part of God’s plan for creation and for our lives. As Pope Francis has taught with such sensitivity, to live in the truth with God’s intended gifts in our lives requires that we receive our bodily and sexual identity with gratitude from our Creator. No one can find true happiness by pursuing a path that is contrary to God’s plan.\ Every human person is made in the image and likeness of God and, without exception, must be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect. Protecting our neighbors from unjust discrimination does not require redefining human nature. We pray that the Church, with the help of Mary, the Mother of God, will be able to continue her mission to bring Jesus Christ to every man and woman.On August 23, 2019, the USCCB, joined by other national religious organizations, filed amicus curiae briefs in the cases. They are available at http://www.usccb.org/about/general-counsel/amicus-briefs/upload/Bostock-8-23-19.pdf and http://www.usccb.org/about/general-counsel/amicus-briefs/upload/Harris-8-23-19.pdf.
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[post_title] => President of U.S. Bishops’ Conference Issues Statement on Supreme Court Decision on Legal Definition of “Sex” in Civil Rights Law [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-u-s-bishops-conference-issues-statement-on-supreme-court-decision-on-legal-definition-of-sex-in-civil-rights-law [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-06-16 11:01:17 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-06-16 15:01:17 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122261 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [92] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122183 [post_author] => 15 [post_date] => 2020-06-10 12:28:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-06-10 16:28:13 [post_content] => June 10, 2020 WASHINGTON - Four new members have been appointed to serve on the National Review Board (NRB) by Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). The NRB advises the bishops’ Committee on the Protection of Children and Young People and was established as part of the Charter for Protection of Children and Young People, a comprehensive set of procedures established and adopted by the U.S. bishops in 2002 to address allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy. In his letter to the newly appointed members, Archbishop Gomez reminded them, “The National Review Board plays a vital role as a consultative body assisting the bishops in ensuring the complete implementation and accountability of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. As it states, ‘The whole Church, especially the laity, at both the diocesan and national levels, needs to be engaged in maintaining safe environments in the Church for children and young people.’” The four new NRB members are as follows: Ms. Vivian M. Akel, LCSW, is a retired Clinical Social Worker currently holding the position (volunteer) of Safe Environment Coordinator for the Maronite Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn as well as Pre-Cana facilitator. Her prior experience includes 21 years with the New York City Department of Education as a School Social Worker providing all aspects of Social Work Services with school age children, parents and educators. In addition, Ms. Akel held the position of Director of Social Work in an acute care medical center supervising social workers providing services to patients, families and medical personnel. Ms. Akel began her career working in a Community Mental Health Center in Brooklyn New York providing outpatient psychotherapy to individual patients, couples and families and maintained a private practice until her retirement in 2014. She received a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Hunter College School of Social Work and is currently enrolled in a Spiritual Direction training program at Fairfield University’s Murphy Center for Ignatian Spirituality. Ms. Akel has been married for 34 years and has two adult children. Mr. James Bogner is a retired Senior Executive Special Agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation with over 35 years of law enforcement experience including serving as a municipal police officer, commanding a detective division, and an FBI Special Agent. He has served as a field investigator in Indianapolis, an investigative supervisor in Chicago, a Unit Chief in the Washington D.C. headquarters of the FBI’s Internal Affairs/Adjudication Unit, and then the national Inspection Unit. Mr. Bogner was assigned as Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge in Oklahoma City after the 1995 bombing. He served in the Senior Executive Service in Washington, and later as Special Agent-in-Charge of FBI offices in the midwest over Nebraska and Iowa. These positions included investigations, developing multi-agency liaisons and partnerships, addressing national personnel and misconduct policies and issues, conducting national inspections and audits, risk analysis, strategic planning, and high-profile media matters. Mr. Bogner later served as the first Assistant Federal Security Director developing procedures and protocols for airport security for Law Enforcement in Nebraska and Iowa after 9/11. He has served on several local, state and national boards and councils. Mr. Bogner has a Master’s Degree in Administration of Justice, and he is a graduate of the FBI’s National Executive Institute. He has also served as Adjunct Faculty at the University of Nebraska-Omaha in the Criminal Justice program. His volunteer work includes being President of his Parish Council to include data and survey analysis and strategic planning. Mr. Bogner also serves on the Archdiocesan Advisory Review and Ministerial Misconduct Boards for the Archdiocese of Omaha. Mr. Steven Jubera is an Assistant District Attorney for Mississippi's 17th Judicial District. Born in Chicago, he served as a United States Marine being deployed to the Middle East with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit Upon Mr. Jubera’s honorable discharge, he attended the University of Illinois at Chicago then earned his law degree from the University of Mississippi in Oxford, MS where he currently resides. Mr. Jubera has assisted in the formation of a child advocacy center to better serve the children of his community and has been a speaker advocating for children including the One Loud Voice conference in Mississippi. Mr. Jubera currently serves on the Review Board for the Diocese of Jackson. He is married with four children and one grandson. Thomas M. Mengler is president of St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, Texas. He holds a J.D. from the University of Texas School of Law. Before becoming president of St. Mary’s, he served as dean of two law schools: the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota. Mr. Mengler has served Catholic higher education as a member and, between 2018 to 2020, as Chair of the Board of Directors of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities. In that role, Mr. Mengler also served in 2018 as a member of the Higher Education Working Group for the USCCB’s Committee on Higher Education. Previously, he served on the Board of Directors of Catholic Charities of San Antonio and as Co-Chair of the Lay Commission on Clergy Sexual Abuse of Minors in the Archdiocese of San Antonio. He and his wife have four adult children. Details regarding the National Review Board, its functions and other members can be found at: http://www.usccb.org/about/child-and-youth-protection/the-national-review- [post_title] => President of U.S. Bishops’ Conference Appoints Four New Members of National Review Board for the Charter for Protection of Children and Young People [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-u-s-bishops-conference-appoints-four-new-members-of-national-review-board-for-the-charter-for-protection-of-children-and-young-people [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-06-10 12:28:13 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-06-10 16:28:13 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122183 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [93] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122126 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-06-08 19:17:44 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-06-08 23:17:44 [post_content] =>Deacon Charles Williams, director, Office for Black Catholics, leads us in a Thursday evening (June 11) Prayer Service for Racial Healing.
The program is streamed live at 7:30 p.m.
The virtual prayer service can be viewed on our livestream page at the following:
www.richmonddiocese.org/livestream or on our YouTube channel.
We join our voice in prayer for healing, for unity and for peace. We ask the Divine Physician, Christ the Lord, to heal the wounds of hurt throughout our land. Please pray with us...
[post_title] => Prayer Service for Racial Healing - Livestream [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => prayer-service-for-racial-healing-livestream [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-06-12 14:27:30 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-06-12 18:27:30 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122126 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [94] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122112 [post_author] => 15 [post_date] => 2020-06-08 14:30:02 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-06-08 18:30:02 [post_content] =>God of Heaven and Earth, you created the one human family and endowed each person with great dignity.
Aid us, we pray, in overcoming the sin of racism. Grant us your grace in eliminating this blight from our hearts, our communities, our social and civil institutions.
Fill our hearts with love for you and our neighbor so that we may work with you in healing our land from racial injustice. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Catholic Diocese of Richmond Begins Review into Allegations Against Four Retired or Inactive Priests
(RICHMOND, Va.) - The Catholic Diocese of Richmond announced today (June 8), it has begun a review into allegations of child sexual abuse involving four retired or inactive priests. None of the accused priests are currently serving in active ministry, nor have they recently served in ministry for the diocese. The diocese has not reached any conclusions regarding these allegations, rather this statement serves to announce the beginning of its inquiry into the allegations. Until this inquiry concludes, the accused are not deemed to have committed the acts alleged. At the same time, Bishop Knestout acknowledges it takes great courage to come forward to report allegations of this nature. “While the alleged incidents are from the past, we recognize the pain is still a deep and present reality for victim survivors of abuse and for their loved ones,” said Bishop Barry C. Knestout. “We continue to pray for their healing and for their loved ones who support them.” Bishop Knestout has prohibited all of the named diocesan clergy from any public ministry in the diocese while the allegations are being reviewed. As part of the Church process into the allegations, the Diocesan Review Board will make recommendations to Bishop Knestout. Based upon its findings, the Diocesan Review Board’s recommendations will assist Bishop Knestout with an appropriate response to the allegations. Then, Bishop Knestout will make a final determination. The Diocese has also notified the civil authorities. Fr. William Dinga, Jr. | Status: Retired Without Priestly Faculties Allegations of child sexual abuse have been made against Fr. William Dinga, Jr. while serving at Christ the King Catholic Church, Norfolk in 1986. Fr. Dinga adamantly denies the allegations. He was ordained a priest for the Catholic Diocese of Richmond in 1975 and served as a pastor or associate pastor at the following parishes: Christ the King, Norfolk; Saint Andrew, Roanoke; Holy Cross, Lynchburg; Saint Jerome, Newport News; Saint Vincent de Paul, Newport News; and Saint Peter, Richmond. Fr. Dinga retired in 1990. Prior to this recent allegation, Fr. Dinga did not have permission to exercise any public priestly ministry. His priestly faculties remain suspended. Fr. Joseph Slowik | Status: Retired without Priestly Faculties Allegations of child sexual abuse have been made against Fr. Joseph Slowik while serving at St. Paul’s in Portsmouth in the early 1990’s. The diocese has been unable to ascertain Fr. Slowik’s response to the allegations. The Church process will proceed based on the assumption that Fr. Slowik denies the allegations. Incardinated as a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond in 1979, he served as a pastor and/or associate pastor at the following parishes: St. John, Petersburg, St. Paul, Portsmouth and Church of Saint Therese, Gloucester. He was removed from public ministry in 2006. Fr. Slowik’s priestly faculties remain suspended. Fr. Thomas L. Long, Jr. | Suspended from Priestly Ministry Allegations of child sexual abuse have been made against Fr. Thomas L. Long, Jr. while serving at Christ the King Catholic School in Norfolk in 1986. The diocese has been unable to ascertain Fr. Long’s response to the allegations. The Church process will proceed based on the assumption that Fr. Long denies the allegations. Fr. Long, ordained a priest of the diocese in 1981, was assigned to St. Joseph in Petersburg and Christ the King in Norfolk. He took a leave of absence in 1988 and has not served in priestly ministry within the Diocese of Richmond since that time. Prior to these allegations, Fr. Long’s priestly faculties were already suspended. His faculties remain suspended. Fr. Eugene Daigle | Religious Order Priest Allegations of child sexual abuse have been made against Fr. Eugene Daigle, a religious order priest, while serving at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea in Fort Monroe in the late 1970’s. Fr. Daigle was ordained a Redemptorist, or member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (C.Ss.R), a religious community of Roman Catholic priests and brothers, before working in ministry in the diocese. The Catholic Diocese of Richmond has informed the provincial superior of the Redemptorists of the Baltimore Province, to whom Fr. Daigle reports to, of the allegations. Currently, Fr. Daigle is no longer active in priestly ministry.* The diocese has been unable to ascertain Fr. Daigle’s response to the allegations. The Church process will proceed based on the assumption that Fr. Daigle denies the allegation. As always, the Catholic Diocese of Richmond encourages individuals who have been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, religious, lay employee or volunteer of the diocese to report abuse directly to law enforcement first, including Child Protective Services (CPS) at 1-800-552-7096, and by calling the Virginia Clergy Abuse Hotline at 1-833-454-9064 or (VirginiaClergyHotline.com). Individuals are also encouraged to contact the 24-hour confidential Victim’s Assistance Reporting number at 1-877-887-9603 or email vac@richmonddiocese.org. The Diocesan Child Protection Policy can be viewed online at: https://richmonddiocese.org/diocesan-policies/###
*Media Note: Any further information regarding Fr. Eugene Daigle’s date of ordination and previous assignments will have to be obtained from the Redemptorists. The Redemptorists can be reached by contacting Provincial@redemptorists.net. [post_title] => Catholic Diocese of Richmond Begins Review into Allegations Against Four Retired or Inactive Priests [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catholic-diocese-of-richmond-begins-review-into-allegations-against-four-retired-or-inactive-priests [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-06-08 14:26:27 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-06-08 18:26:27 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122112 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [95] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122089 [post_author] => 15 [post_date] => 2020-06-03 11:09:02 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-06-03 15:09:02 [post_content] => June 3, 2020 WASHINGTON – Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops received a call from Pope Francis today, where the Holy Father expressed his prayers and closeness to the Church and the people of the United States in this moment of unrest. Archbishop Gomez shared this news with the U.S. bishops in the hope that they could take comfort and gain strength in the Holy Father’s encouragement. Pope Francis expressed his gratitude to the bishops for their pastoral tone in the Church’s response to the demonstrations across the country in their statements and actions since the death of George Floyd and assured the bishops of his continued prayers and closeness in the days and weeks ahead. He expressed special prayers for Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda and the local Church of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. Archbishop Gomez, on behalf of the bishops’ conference, conveyed gratitude to the Holy Father for his strong words of support that were also expressed during this morning’s general audience,and in turn, assured the Holy Father of their prayers. [post_title] => U.S. Bishops Receive Call of Encouragement and Assurances of Prayer from Pope Francis in the Wake of Social Unrest in the United States [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-receive-call-of-encouragement-and-assurances-of-prayer-from-pope-francis-in-the-wake-of-social-unrest-in-the-united-states [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-06-04 11:10:35 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-06-04 15:10:35 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122089 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [96] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122323 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-06-02 16:00:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-06-02 20:00:32 [post_content] => Please keep our seminarians in your prayers this summer! Continuing Pastoral Year Assignments (ends August 2020) Dillon Bruce Rev. Msgr. William Carr St. Bridget, Richmond Armando Herrera Rev. John David Ramsey St. Benedict, Richmond Alex Jimenez Very Rev. Danny Cogut, V.F. St. Ann, Colonial Heights Joseph Kauflin Very Rev. Kevin Segerblom, V.E. St. Andrew, Roanoke Pastoral Year Assignments (June – August 2021) William Buckley Rev. Msgr. Patrick Golden Our Lady of Nazareth, Roanoke Christopher Weyer Rev. John David Ramsey St. Benedict, Richmond Summer Parish Assignments (June – August 2020) Tom Lawrence Rev. Rolo Castillo St. John, Waynesboro David Arellano Rev. James Glass Holy Trinity, Norfolk William Douglas Rev. Christopher Hess St. Anne, Bristol Seth Seaman Rev. Msgr. William Carr St. Bridget, Richmond Matthew Kelly Very Rev. Eric Ayers, V. F. Blessed Sacrament, Norfolk Luke Fitzgerald Home for summer Andrew Clark Very Rev. Joseph Mary Lukyamuzi, V.F. Holy Comforter, Charlottesville Gregory Guilfoyle Home for summer Samuel Hill Rev. Christopher Hess St. Anne, Bristol Graham Fassero Rev. Joseph Wamala St. Francis, Staunton Charles Palmer Rev. Msgr. Joseph Lehman St. Bede, Williamsburg Chase Imoru Rev. James Glass Holy Trinity, Norfolk John Paul Shanahan Rev. Joseph Wamala St. Francis Staunton Carl Thompson Rev. Charles Ssebalamu St. Jude, Christiansburg Charlie Tamayo Home for summer [post_title] => Seminarian Summer 2020 Assignments [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => seminarian-summer-2020-assignments [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-06-22 16:01:39 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-06-22 20:01:39 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122323 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [97] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122038 [post_author] => 15 [post_date] => 2020-06-02 14:16:42 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-06-02 18:16:42 [post_content] => We are pleased to invite you to join us via livestream for the ordination of two men for the Diocese of Richmond and one man for the Diocese of Zacatecoluca on Saturday, July 11, 2020, at 10:30 a.m. at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Richmond.O God, who have willed to provide shepherds for your people, pour out a spirit of reverence and fortitude in your Church, to make these your servants worthy ministers at your altar and ardent yet gentle heralds of your Gospel. through our Lord Jesus Christ, you Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. | Dios y Padre nuestro, tú que eres quien provee de pastores a tu pueblo, derrama sobre tu Iglesia el Espíritu de piedad y fortaleza, que convierta a estos siervos tuyos en dignos ministros de tu altar y los haga testigos valientes y humildes de tu Evangelio. Por nuestro Señor Jesucristo, tu Hijo, que vive y reina contigo en la unidad del Espíritu Santo y es Dios por los siglos de los siglos. |
“Like you, I have been distressed, angered and heartbroken by what has transpired with the images we have seen coming from Minneapolis and across our country. The loss of George Floyd’s life is unacceptable and heartbreaking. We pray for the repose of his soul and for his loved ones who are suffering. And while we arehundreds of miles from Minneapolis, the anguish and pain are deeply affecting our community here too. The sorrow and the anger were clear last night in our city.” “I know many in our community are outraged and have experienced racism in their own lives. I know because I have listened and heard from them directly. Their pain is real, and it cannot be ignored. I also know that violence is not an acceptable response to violence. Such actions only perpetuate the destructive cycle. It is only through a peaceful response can we create positive change for the future.” “We know that the vast majority of those within the law enforcement community are good, honest and respected officers who are doing good, seeking to protect common good in sometimes stressful and difficult environments. Please pray for them as well.”
“As we are immersed in the Solemnity of Pentecost this weekend, I call upon all Catholics to pray to the Holy Spirit for guidance of our country and of our own diocese during these challenging times. As St. Augustine wrote, “Strengthen me O Holy Spirit, to defend all that is holy. Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, that I always may be holy.”
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Please also view the video from Bishop Shelton J. Fabre of Houma-Thibodaux, chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). The link to the video is located on the USCCB YouTube Channel and you can view it below.
[post_title] => Bishop Knestout Statement on the Death of George Floyd and Unrest in Richmond [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-statement-on-the-death-of-george-floyd-and-unrest-in-richmond [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-05-30 16:29:52 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-05-30 20:29:52 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=122010 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [100] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 122004 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-05-29 21:09:18 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-05-30 01:09:18 [post_content] =>###
[post_title] => Celebration of Public Masses to Resume in Catholic Diocese of Richmond [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => celebration-of-public-masses-to-resume-in-catholic-diocese-of-richmond [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-05-15 13:02:05 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-05-15 17:02:05 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121792 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [105] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121785 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-05-15 12:12:03 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-05-15 16:12:03 [post_content] =>Updated information:
On May 14, 2020, local leaders of the City of Richmond and the County of Accomack requested a two-week delay to enter Phase One, Governor Northam amended Executive Order 62 to delay reopening of these jurisdictions until Friday, May 29, 2020. As a result of this new information and for the safety of all, Bishop Knestout is directing all parishes located in the City of Richmond and the County of Accomack to delay moving to Phase 1 Reopening until the Sunday Vigil Mass on Saturday, May 30, 2020. This includes delaying offering public Masses. en español May 15, 2020 Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with great joy we will once again come together in our parish churches for the celebration of Sunday Mass, beginning the weekend of May 23 and 24, in this diocese, we celebrate the Feast of the Ascension. These past eight weeks have been a time when — to use the words of the Psalmist — we have longed, thirsted and yearned for the Eucharist. We have come to appreciate in a deeper way how important it is for us to be fed the Bread of Life. In order to protect your health and those of your fellow parishioners at Mass, we have put in place numerous safeguards. Among them are: Worshipers age 3 and older will wear face coverings. Masses will be scheduled with additional time between them. We will practice social distancing. Communion will be distributed only in the form of bread and only by the priest and deacon. Your parish and our website richmonddiocese.org have additional information of what you can expect as we resume the celebration of public Masses. This is the first phase of restoring full sacramental life in our parishes. We will need to work together as we prepare to move safely into a gradual reopening. Please be patient with and understanding of your clergy and parish staff as they implement these guidelines. Their concern is to protect the health of our faith communities while we celebrate Mass. During this time of transition, I wish to thank you for supporting your parish with your prayers and financial contributions, and for the personal commitment you have made to grow in faith and to be people of hope. Please pray for those who have become ill or who have lost their lives due to COVID-19. Pray, too, our health care workers and all who are on the front lines of treating those who have the coronavirus. Their service is a witness to the Gospel. As we ask God to keep us safe and thank him for his goodness, and we call upon the Holy Spirit to guide us and inspire us during this challenging time, be assured of my prayers for you and please keep me in yours. Yours in Christ, The Most. Rev. Barry C. Knestout Bishop of Richmond Read entire announcement from the Catholic Diocese of Richmond en español [post_title] => Bishop Knestout's Letter to the Faithful to Resume the Celebration of Public Masses in the Catholic Diocese of Richmond [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestouts-letter-to-the-faithful-to-resume-the-celebration-of-public-masses-in-the-catholic-diocese-of-richmond [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-05-15 17:59:44 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-05-15 21:59:44 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121785 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [106] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121737 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-05-11 17:19:17 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-05-11 21:19:17 [post_content] =>View Bishop Knestout's Mother's Day 2020 Message in English. Click image below.
[caption id="attachment_121706" align="aligncenter" width="400"]Mensaje del día de la madre del Obispo Knestout
Con nuestra celebración del Día de la Madre este domingo, quiero desearles a todas las madres en nuestra diócesis un feliz y bendito Día de las Madres. Cada vez que nos enfrentamos con tiempos difíciles, pareciera como que las madres son las más afectadas por ellos. Esto pareciera también ser cierto con la crisis del COVID-19. Al yo rezar por todas las madres este domingo, varias de ellas en particular me vienen a la mente: Yo estoy rezando por las madres que trabajan en el ambiente del cuidado de la salud y que están trabajando múltiples y más largos turnos, cuidando de aquellos a las que han sido llamadas, aunque están cansadas y separadas de sus familias por períodos extensos de tiempo. Yo estoy rezando por las madres preocupadas porque son la única fuente de ingreso de sus familias, pero que han sido dejadas ir a su casa por los momentos sin trabajo o cuyos sitios de trabajo cerraron. Yo estoy rezando por las madres estresadas al tratar de balancear trabajar desde la casa con suplir las necesidades de sus niños, ayudándolos con sus estudios y dándoles la atención que se merecen. Si usted es una de las madres yo describo, o si conoce a alguien que lo es, los animo a tomar unos momentos y rezarle a Nuestra Madre Bendita. Encuentre apoyo y Consuelo en el Inmaculado Sagrado Corazón de María – un corazón amoroso que quita nuestro dolor, preocupaciones y temores y los lleva a su Hijo para la sanación. Así como ella supo por lo que Jesús estaba pasando, ella sabe por lo que ustedes están pasando aquí y ahora. Vuélvanse a ella como Nuestra Señora de la Consolación – que conoce y entiende las ansiedades que vienen con el ser madres. En este día cuando honramos a nuestras madres, y durante este mes dedicado a nuestra Madre Bendita, vayan a ella, háblenle. Su corazón está escuchando y le traerá a usted la consolación que necesita. Que nuestra Madre Bendita sea su guía e inspiración para un feliz y bendito Día de las Madres.###
[post_title] => A Mother's Day Message from Bishop Knestout/Mensaje del día de la madre del Obispo Knestout [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => mensaje-del-dia-de-la-madre-del-obispo-knestout [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-05-13 10:54:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-05-13 14:54:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121737 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [107] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121741 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-05-09 17:32:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-05-09 21:32:58 [post_content] =>Un Mensaje del Obispo Barry C. Knestout
Como muchos de ustedes saben el gobernador ha anunciado la posibilidad de abrir la Fase I en términos de expandir las oportunidades para reuniones al final de la semana. Nosotros aquí en la diócesis hemos estado planeando por algún tiempo maneras en las que podemos proveer los sacramentos con reuniones limitadas cualquiera sea eso y la guía será compartida con los párrocos y las parroquias. Aquí en esta semana venidera, habrá una apertura gradual, no debemos esperar que todo va a pasar a la vez y cada lugar de la misma manera, debido a las circunstancias locales; pero a cada parroquia se le pedirá/invitará a crear un plan de cómo pueden ellos acomodar grupos grandes o grupos más grandes pero aún retener las precauciones necesarias de seguridad y salud a la vez que provee lo que está bien para la parroquia, el feligrés, los empleados y el sacerdote que celebra los sacramentos. Habrá más información, más instrucciones que serán compartidas esta semana y ansiamos ver llegar el día a nivel local cuando nos será posible reunirnos para la Eucaristía en una forma amplia, de poder regocijarnos en la presencia, la fuerza y en la gracia que Cristo nos ofrece en la Eucaristía. [post_title] => Un Mensaje del Obispo Barry C. Knestout [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => un-mensaje-del-obispo-barry-c-knestout [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-05-13 10:54:45 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-05-13 14:54:45 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121741 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [108] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121669 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-05-06 08:18:31 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-05-06 12:18:31 [post_content] => Comunicación Inmediata: 6 de mayo de 2020 (RICHMOND, Va.) - El obispo Barry C. Knestout anunció que ha suspendido al padre Mark White del ministerio sacerdotal público, con efecto inmediato. "He pensado y prestado mucha atención y no tomo esta acción a la ligera. Desde hace varias semanas, me he preocupado cada vez más por la comunión eclesial de los fieles de las parroquias de San José en Martinsville y de San Francisco de Asís en Rocky Mount. Tengo la responsabilidad de asegurar que todos los ministerios dentro de la diócesis trabajen para unificar y construir el Cuerpo de Cristo, no para causar más discordia. Tengo la obligación de asegurar que aquellos que sirven a nuestros fieles puedan hacerlo de la manera que la Iglesia espera. Mi corazón, mi deseo y mi responsabilidad es la comunión de esta comunidad no sólo para esta parroquia, sino para todas las parroquias de la diócesis". Aunque está restringido de su papel ministerial, el Padre White tiene prohibido cualquier forma de practicar su ministerio en la Iglesia, ésto incluye la celebración pública de los sacramentos y el ejercicio de cualquier función oficial relacionada con el oficio de pastor. Según el derecho canónico (o el derecho de la Iglesia católica romana), mientras se recurre a él, el padre White sigue conservando el título de pastor, pero se suspenden todas las responsabilidades o deberes públicos relacionados con el título.###
[post_title] => El obispo Knestout suspende a un sacerdote de su ministerio activo en la diócesis de Richmond [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => el-obispo-knestout-suspende-a-un-sacerdote-de-su-ministerio-activo-en-la-diocesis-de-richmond [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-05-06 08:18:31 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-05-06 12:18:31 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121669 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [109] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121668 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-05-06 08:16:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-05-06 12:16:32 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: May 6, 2020 (RICHMOND, Va.) – Bishop Barry C. Knestout announced he has suspended Father Mark White from public priestly ministry, effective immediately. “I have given this considerable amount of thought and attention and I do not take this action lightly. For several weeks now, I have become more and more concerned for the ecclesiastical communion of the faithful at the parishes of St. Joseph in Martinsville and Saint Francis of Assisi in Rocky Mount. I have a responsibility to ensure all ministries within the diocese work to unify and build the Body of Christ, not cause further discord. I have an obligation to ensure that those who serve our faithful are able to do so in a way that the Church expects. My heart, my desire, and my responsibility are the communion of this community not only for this parish, but every parish in the diocese.” While restricted from his ministerial role, Father White is prohibited from any form of practicing Church ministry which includes the public celebration of the sacraments and exercising any official functions related to the office of a pastor. Under Canon law (or Church law of the Roman Catholic Church), while seeking recourse, Father Mark White still retains the title of pastor, but any responsibilities or public duties associated with the title are suspended. As previously communicated last month (April 13th), Father Kevin Segerblom, episcopal vicar for the Western Vicarate, is appointed as administrator overseeing the pastoral care and administrative duties for both parishes.###
[post_title] => Bishop Knestout Suspends Priest from Active Ministry in the Catholic Diocese of Richmond [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-suspends-priest-from-active-ministry-in-the-catholic-diocese-of-richmond [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-05-06 08:16:32 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-05-06 12:16:32 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121668 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [110] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121676 [post_author] => 15 [post_date] => 2020-05-05 09:20:27 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-05-05 13:20:27 [post_content] => May 5, 2020 WASHINGTON – In the midst of fear and anxiety being fueled by the COVID-19 virus, there have been increased reports of incidents of racism and xenophobia against Americans of Asian and Pacific Island heritage. Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez of Philadelphia and chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee for Cultural Diversity in the Church, Bishop Oscar A. Solis of Salt Lake City and chairman of the USCCB’s Subcommittee on Asian and Pacific Island Affairs, and Bishop Shelton Fabre of Houma-Thibodaux and chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism have issued a statement expressing their deep concern. “The pandemic resulting from the new coronavirus continues to sweep across the world, impacting our everyday behavior, practices, perceptions, and the way we interact with one another. While we have been heartened by the countless acts of charity and bravery that have been modeled by many, we are also alarmed to note the increase in reported incidents of bullying and verbal and physical assaults, particularly against Americans of Asian and Pacific Island heritage. “While a high percentage of Asian Americans work in the health care sector risking their own health to save lives, some have experienced rejection and requests to be treated ‘by someone else.’ Way before state and local ordinances brought to a halt almost every economic sector in the country, communities across the country, from Oakland, California to New York City, reported a sharp decline in the patronage for businesses owned and operated by Asian Americans. These are only a few painful examples of the continuing harassment and racial discrimination suffered by people of Asian and Pacific Islanders and others in our country. “As Catholic bishops, we find these actions absolutely unacceptable. We call on Catholics, fellow Christians and all people of good will to help stop all racially motivated discriminatory actions and attitudes, for they are attacks against human life and dignity and are contrary to Gospel values. As we wrote in our pastoral letter Open Wide Our Hearts(2018), racism is ‘a failure to acknowledge another person as a brother or sister, created in the image of God.’ “Our hearts go out to all those who have been victims of these vile displays of racism and xenophobia. These dreadful occurrences are a reminder that, in an environment of increased anxiety and fear, racial profiling and discrimination continue to negatively impact the lives of certain populations, adding to the pain and suffering already caused by the pandemic. “The acts of violence and unjust discrimination evoke and prod a long history of xenophobia and racism in this country. If uncontested, they could lead once again to a normalization of violence and abuse against particular groups. It would be a tragedy for the United States to repeat this history or for any American to act as if it is appropriate to do so. “Rather, the reality of the times and all the suffering caused by this pandemic call for a stronger resolve towards unity, demonstrated through acts of solidarity, kindness and love toward one another, so that we can emerge from this crisis renewed and stronger as one American people; a people that places value in every human life, regardless of race, ethnic origin, gender or religious affiliation. “While we continue to pray fervently for an end to the pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus, we call for a firm rejection of racial categorizations or presumptions, racially based verbal assaults or slurs, and for an end to all forms of violence. We ask our elected officials and public institutions, as well as all public figures, to do all that they can to promote and maintain peace in our communities; and we encourage all individuals, families and congregations to assist in promoting a greater appreciation and understanding of the authentic human values and cultural contributions brought by each racial heritage in our country.” [post_title] => Bishop Chairmen Condemn Racism and Xenophobia in the Context of the Coronavirus Pandemic [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-chairmen-condemn-racism-and-xenophobia-in-the-context-of-the-coronavirus-pandemic [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-05-06 09:22:03 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-05-06 13:22:03 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121676 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [111] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121576 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-04-30 12:30:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-04-30 16:30:32 [post_content] =>Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the USCCB has announced that the U.S. bishops will join the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops on May 1 in renewing the consecrations of the two nations to the care of our Blessed Mother.
Join us in prayer, Friday, May 1st, in reconsecrating our nations to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
A liturgy guide is available by clicking the links below in English | Spanish | Vietnamese.
More information including worship aids available below and also at the USCCB link here: usccb.org/consecration
The Catholic Diocese of Richmond has been made aware of individuals receiving emails from scammers impersonating the Most Rev. Barry C. Knestout, bishop of Richmond. The emails are from a fake gmail account and begin with a “hi, how are you doing” message then ask for “assistance from you, email as soon as you get this message.” Upon further response to the fake account, the individual is requested to send a gift card or asks for financial help related to COVID-19.
The emails are a hoax. All official diocesan email communication comes from an @richmonddiocese.org email address.
The Diocese of Richmond wants individuals to know members of the clergy do not raise money in this manner nor solicit for gift cards or for people to verify personal information online. Requests for money are done in churches or through official collections approved by the diocese.
If you receive an email from anyone, no matter their title or position with the diocese or from a parish, soliciting gift cards or cash donations, please exercise extreme caution.
According to the Virginia Attorney General Office (OAG), scammers are using the COVID-19 pandemic to target Virginians through a variety of phony requests for money. They are warning the public about the scams. You can read more about the alert from the OAG: https://www.oag.state.va.us/consumer-protection/index.php/scams-information/scam-alerts
The diocese does not want you to fall prey to a scam like this. If you, your friends or family have received emails or possible texts, you can report scams to Virginia’s Consumer Protection Section by visiting consumer@oag.state.va.us and filling out a complaint form or calling 1-800-552-9963.
For helpful tips on how to avoid being taking advantage of, visit the Federal Trade Commission, Consumer Information Page.
###
[post_title] => ALERT: Email Scam Targets Faithful of the Diocese [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => alert-email-scam-targets-faithful-of-diocese [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-04-21 18:11:29 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-04-21 22:11:29 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121470 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [114] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121177 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-04-13 14:00:23 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-04-13 18:00:23 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: April 13, 2020###
[post_title] => Announcement: April Clergy Assignment [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => new-appointment-for-pastor-of-st-joseph-in-martinsville-and-st-francis-of-assisi-in-rocky-mount [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-04-13 13:57:32 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-04-13 17:57:32 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121177 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [115] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121174 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-04-13 13:37:46 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-04-13 17:37:46 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: April 13, 2020Retired Priest Name Not Added to Diocesan List of Clergy with a Credible and Substantiated Allegation of Child Sexual Abuse
(RICHMOND, Va.) - Following a lengthy investigation by the Diocesan Review Board, Bishop Barry C. Knestout of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond has determined that Msgr. Raymond A. Barton, a retired priest of the diocese, will not have his name added to the diocesan list of clergy with a credible and substantiated allegation of child sexual abuse. On Feb. 14, 2020, the Catholic Diocese of Richmond announced it had received a report of allegations of child sexual abuse against the retired priest. The information was brought to the diocese by a representative of a deceased victim. When notified of the allegations, the diocese reported the information to law enforcement authorities. (Read initial statement.) In accordance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, the diocese conducted an internal investigation of the allegations involving Msgr. Barton. The information gathered was presented to the Diocesan Review Board which reported its findings and recommendation to Bishop Knestout. The bishop concluded that while the allegation was credible, it could not be substantiated. “There were several factors that weighed against my decision to add Msgr. Barton’s name to the list of credibly and substantially accused. Chief among them is the fact that both the accuser, who is deceased, and the accused, who is unable to be interviewed due to health conditions, cannot clarify the question at issue,” said Bishop Knestout. “Therefore, I will not add Msgr. Barton’s name to the list of credibly and substantially accused at this time.” Individuals who have been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, religious, lay employee or volunteer of the diocese should report abuse directly to law enforcement, including Child Protective Services (CPS) at 800-552-7096, and by calling the Attorney General’s Clergy Abuse Hotline at 833-454-9064. Individuals are also encouraged to contact the 24-hour confidential Victim’s Assistance Reporting number at 877-887-9603 or email vac@richmonddiocese.org to report sexual abuse.###
Notice Regarding Rev. Msgr. Raymond A. Barton, Retired
A representative of a deceased victim has come forward with a report sharing allegations of child sexual abuse by Rev. Msgr. Raymond Barton. The report identified the victim and described details of the abuse. The incident is alleged to have occurred in the early-1970’s. The Catholic Diocese of Richmond has reported the allegations to civil authorities. Msgr. Barton, retired since 2011, is not currently serving in ministry. Msgr. Barton will not be permitted to engage in active ministry until the allegations are investigated and resolved. Msgr. Barton was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Richmond in 1966. He served as an associate pastor at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Richmond, and as a faculty member at St. John Vianney Seminary, Goochland. He was a pastor at the following parishes: Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Norfolk; Saint Nicholas Catholic Church in Virginia Beach; and Holy Comforter Catholic Church in Charlottesville. He also served as a co-pastor for Church of the Holy Apostles in Virginia Beach. Bishop Knestout remains committed to transparency and accountability when allegations of child sexual abuse are reported. He encourages anyone who knows of any misconduct or abuse on the part of a cleric or representative of the diocese to report it. Individuals who have been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, religious, lay employee or volunteer of the diocese should report abuse directly to law enforcement, including Child Protective Services (CPS) at 1-800-552-7096, and by calling the Attorney General’s Clergy Abuse Hotline at 1-833-454-9064. Individuals are also encouraged to contact the 24-hour confidential Victim’s Assistance Reporting number at 1-877-887-9603 or email vac@richmonddiocese.org to report sexual abuse.###
[post_title] => UPDATE: Diocesan Review Board Concludes Investigation of Rev. Msgr. Raymond A. Barton, Retired [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => update-diocesan-review-board-concludes-investigation-of-rev-msgr-raymond-a-barton-retired [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-04-13 14:07:17 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-04-13 18:07:17 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121174 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [116] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121267 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-04-13 10:00:06 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-04-13 14:00:06 [post_content] => [caption id="attachment_121269" align="aligncenter" width="400"]###
*View all Holy Week liturgies at the Cathedral presided by Bishop Knestout on our YouTube Channel. [post_title] => A different kind of Easter celebration [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => a-different-kind-of-easter-celebration [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-04-17 11:27:22 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-04-17 15:27:22 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121267 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [117] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121163 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-04-12 21:37:11 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-04-13 01:37:11 [post_content] =>Holy Saturday | Easter Vigil
[caption id="attachment_121169" align="aligncenter" width="400"]Good Friday | The Passion of the Lord
[caption id="attachment_121165" align="aligncenter" width="450"]Livestream of Good Friday Liturgy:
Holy Thursday | Mass of the Lord's Supper
[caption id="attachment_121166" align="aligncenter" width="480"]Livestream of Holy Thursday Liturgy:
[post_title] => Holy Days Celebrated with Faithful Through Livestream [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => holy-days-celebrated-with-faithful-through-livestream [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-04-17 11:28:10 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-04-17 15:28:10 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121163 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [118] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121571 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-04-11 20:21:15 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-04-12 00:21:15 [post_content] => Queridos hermanos y hermanas, Yo siempre estoy lleno de un tremendo agradecimiento por la tecnología que me permite conectarme directamente con ustedes mientras celebramos esta temporada de Pascua, nuestra temporada de salvación. Pero yo se que para ustedes, así como para mí, no se siente como la Pascua este año. El aire cálido es invitador y nos recuerda de las señales de nueva vida que se desarrollan ante nuestros ojos – en las flores, los árboles y a través de la belleza de la creación de Dios a todo nuestro alrededor. Aún así, aquí nos encontramos, en el medio de la orden de “quédese en casa”. Posiblemente nos sentimos un poco olvidados. Confinados. Solos, o hasta Abandonados. Al reflexionar en estas palabras, hago una pausa para recordar como este momento tan poderoso refleja todas las inseguridades y ansiedades sentidas por los Discípulos durante los días después de la crucifixión de Cristo. Mientras solo podemos imaginarnos la ansiedad y el temor de los Discípulos, dolorosamente estamos conscientes de nuestro propio temor y ansiedad. Pero es nuestra fe y lo que celebramos hoy y a lo largo de la temporada de Pascua lo que nos da valor y fortaleza. Así, que para empezar, damos las gracias por el valor y fortaleza de nuestros proveedores de la salud, nuestras oraciones por aquellos pasando por enfermedad, y por aquellos que han sucumbido al COVID-19. Pedimos por la misericordia del Señor y la intercesión de Nuestra Señora durante este tiempo difícil aquí en casa, en nuestra diócesis, en nuestra nación y en el mundo. Oramos por aquellos que se sienten aislados en esta temporada de Pascua. Aún Jesús, en un momento, se sintió abandonado en la cruz. Pero como sabemos, Jesús en su misterio Pascual, primero sufrió, luego resucitó de entre los muertos en gloria, para acompañarnos, guiarnos, nunca dejarnos. ¡El siempre está con nosotros! Durante la Semana de Pascua llenaremos nuestros corazones, si no nuestras bancas, con el poder del Señor Resucitado. Puede que no nos sea posible celebrar como una comunidad como estamos acostumbrados por respeto a la vida humana, pero a través del poder de la tecnología moderna, nosotros podemos aún conectarnos uno con el otro y permitir las Palabras de Esperanza y Ánimo dadas a nosotros por el Espíritu Santo, de no retirarse, pero dar una mano, asegurar, y ofrecer recordatorios que ninguno de nosotros de Fe estamos realmente solos. Estamos espiritualmente unidos como miembros del Cuerpo de Cristo. Y, como el Cuerpo de Cristo, no seremos vencidos por los retos del COVID-19. Le pido a Dios les conceda fuerza continua durante este tiempo, que les conceda esperanza y valor por Su presencia en la oración, y les deseo a ustedes y a sus familias la gracia continua a través del Espíritu Santo para crecer más cerca de Dios a través de su Hijo. Durante este tiempo, rezo por ustedes y sus familias de que permanezcan a salvo de todo mal. La paz de Dios para ustedes y sus familias. Felices Pascuas. [post_title] => Un Mensaje de Pascua del Obispo Barry C. Knestout 2020 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => un-mensaje-de-pascua-del-obispo-barry-c-knestout-2020 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-04-29 20:25:25 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-04-30 00:25:25 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121571 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [119] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121146 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-04-11 15:18:46 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-04-11 19:18:46 [post_content] =>###
[post_title] => Statement by Bishop Burbidge and Bishop Knestout on Governor’s Signature of Abortion Bills [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-by-bishop-burbidge-and-bishop-knestout-on-governors-signature-of-abortion-bills [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-04-11 15:18:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-04-11 19:18:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121146 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [120] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121112 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-04-08 14:31:48 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-04-08 18:31:48 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: April 8, 2020 WASHINGTON—The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) were scheduled to gather for their Spring General Assembly in Detroit, June 10-12. Given the current situation with the Coronavirus that has been classified by the World Health Organization as a pandemic, the Administrative Committee of the USCCB voted earlier this week to cancel the June assembly. In announcing the decision, Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the USCCB said, “The Administrative Committee made this very difficult decision with consideration of multiple factors, but most importantly the health, well-being and safety of the hundreds of bishops, staff, observers, guests, affiliates, volunteers, contractors and media involved with the general meetings. Additionally, even if the numerous temporary restrictions on public gatherings resulting from conditions associated with COVID-19 are lessened by June, the priority for the physical and pastoral presence of the bishop in his See will be acute to tend to the faithful.” This marks the first cancellation of a plenary assembly in the Conference’s history. The bylaws of the Conference state that a plenary assembly is to be convened at least once a year. As such, the November general assembly meeting in Baltimore (scheduled for November 16-19) would fulfill this requirement. [post_title] => U.S. Bishops Cancel June Assembly in Detroit [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-cancel-june-assembly-in-detroit [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-04-09 14:32:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-04-09 18:32:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121112 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [121] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121114 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-04-03 14:50:18 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-04-03 18:50:18 [post_content] => April 3, 2020 WASHINGTON – Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued the following statement for Holy Week. Archbishop Gomez’s full statement follows: “Future generations will look back on this as the long Lent of 2020, a time when disease and death suddenly darkened the whole earth. As we enter into Holy Week, these most sacred days of the year, Catholics across the United States and the world are living under quarantine, our societies shut down by the coronavirus pandemic. “But we know that our Redeemer lives. Even in this extraordinary and challenging moment, we give thanks for what Jesus Christ has done for us by his life, death, and resurrection. Even now, we marvel at the beautiful mystery of our salvation, how precious each one of us is in the eyes of God. “These are times almost without precedent in the long history of the Church. In the face of this worldwide contagion, bishops here and in almost every country have been forced to temporarily suspend public worship and celebration of the sacraments. “My brother bishops and I are painfully aware that many of our Catholic people are troubled and hurt by the loss of the Eucharist and the consolation of the sacraments. This is a bitter affliction that we all feel deeply. We ache with our people and we long for the day when we can be reunited around the altar of the Lord to celebrate the sacred mysteries. “In this difficult moment, we ask God for his grace, that we might bear this burden together with patience and charity, united as one family of God in his universal Church. “On Good Friday, on behalf of the bishops in the United States, I will pray the Litany of the Sacred Heart of Jesus for an end to the coronavirus pandemic. “I ask you to join me in this prayer, which will be livestreamed over the internet at 9 a.m. on the West Coast and 12 noon on the East Coast. Let us join as one family of God here in the United States in asking our Lord for his mercy. “The Holy Father has granted a special plenary indulgence to those who pray for an end to this pandemic. To receive this indulgence, you need to pray the Litany of the Sacred Heart on Good Friday, be truly sorry for your sins and desire to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation as soon as it is possible, and you need to pray for the intentions of the Pope. “In the heart of Jesus, pierced as he hung on the cross on Good Friday, we see the love of God for humanity, his love for each one of us. “This Holy Week will be different. Our churches may be closed, but Christ is not quarantined and his Gospel is not in chains. Our Lord’s heart remains open to every man and woman. Even though we cannot worship together, each of us can seek him in the tabernacles of our own hearts. “Because he loves us, and because his love can never change, we should not be afraid, even in this time of trial and testing. In these mysteries that we remember this week, let us renew our faith in his love. And let us ask our Blessed Mother Mary to intercede for us, that he might deliver us from every evil and grant us peace in our day.” [post_title] => President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Releases Message for Holy Week 2020 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-the-u-s-conference-of-catholic-bishops-releases-message-for-holy-week-2020 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-04-09 15:29:26 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-04-09 19:29:26 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121114 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [122] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 121039 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-04-02 15:35:57 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-04-02 19:35:57 [post_content] => Faithful Encouraged to Pray Litany of the Sacred Heart April 2, 2020 WASHINGTON – Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has invited the faithful to join him in a moment of prayer on Good Friday (April 10) to pray the Litany of the Sacred Heart. Praying together as a nation, the archbishop asks that we seek healing for all who are unwell, wisdom for those whose work is halting the spread of coronavirus, and strength for all God’s children. Friday, April 10, 2020 (Good Friday) 12:00 PM EDT Livestream: USCCB and Archdiocese of Los Angeles Text of Litany of the Sacred Heart: English / Spanish Good Friday is a day when Christians around the world solemnly commemorate the day when Jesus suffered and died on the cross. Catholics traditionally mark the day with fasting, penance, and reflection on Jesus’ loving sacrifice. This opportunity to pray together during the coronavirus pandemic offers a special moment of unity for the faithful during a time when communities throughout the United States and worldwide are physically unable to congregate for Holy Week and Easter because of COVID-19. Additionally, with special permission received from the Apostolic Penitentiary of the Holy See, a plenary indulgence is available for those who join Archbishop Gomez in praying the Litany of the Sacred Heart on Good Friday. A livestream of the Litany of the Sacred Heart with Archbishop Gomez will be available on the Archdiocese of Los Angeles’ website: www.lacatholics.org and on the USCCB Facebook page: www.facebook.com/usccb. [post_title] => USCCB President Calls for National Moment of Prayer on Good Friday [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => usccb-president-calls-for-national-moment-of-prayer-on-good-friday [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-04-09 15:36:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-04-09 19:36:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=121039 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [123] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120887 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-03-31 19:50:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-31 23:50:37 [post_content] =>All of the services listed below will be streamed live on the diocesan Facebook page and YouTube communication platforms.*
Visit www.richmonddiocese.org/livestream to connect.
LIVESTREAM SCHEDULE:
Palm Sunday, April 5, 10 a.m.
The Passion of the Lord, Bishop Knestout presiding
Chrism Mass, moved to July 11, 2020
Holy Thursday, April 9, 6:00 p.m.
Mass of the Lord’s Supper, Bishop Knestout presiding
Good Friday, April 10, 3:00 p.m.
The Passion of the Lord, Bishop Knestout presiding
Holy Saturday, April 11, 8:00 p.m.
The Easter Vigil, Bishop Knestout presiding
Easter Sunday, April 12, 10:00 a.m.Easter Mass, Bishop Knestout presiding
BISHOP BARRY C. KNESTOUT TO CELEBRATE HOLY WEEK LITURGIES BY LIVESTREAM FROM THE CATHEDRAL OF THE SACRED HEART IN RICHMOND
RICHMOND, Va. – As he has done since public Masses were temporarily suspended in the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, Bishop Barry C. Knestout will celebrate Holy Week and broadcast the liturgies through livestream for the faithful. The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart is not open to the public for these celebrations due to the public health concerns associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The suspension of public Masses remains in place througout the diocese until further notice. As a result, parishes across the diocese will livestream Holy Week liturgies so their parishioners can virtually take part in these celebrations.“This is personally distressing not to have the members of our faithful present and physically able to participate with us in this most sacred time,” said Bishop Knestout. “We must work to protect the safety and well-being of all and yet do all we can for our faithful to remain spiritually connected to God and the Church in these uncertain times. During this period of isolation, it is faith that enlightens us and gives life meaning, even when accompanied by suffering. My hope in offering this livestream – while we’d prefer our parishioners gather together with us in the Church – is that it provides that hope and connection to remain in spiritual communion with us until we can one day joyfully share the Mass and sacraments together again.”All of the services listed below will be streamed live at https://richmonddiocese.org/livestream and on the diocesan Facebook page.* LIVESTREAM SCHEDULE: Palm Sunday, April 5, 10 a.m. The Passion of the Lord, Bishop Knestout presiding Chrism Mass, moved to July 11, 2020 Holy Thursday, April 9, 6:00 p.m. Mass of the Lord’s Supper, Bishop Knestout presiding Good Friday, April 10, 3:00 p.m. The Passion of the Lord, Bishop Knestout presiding Holy Saturday, April 11, 8:00 p.m. The Easter Vigil, Bishop Knestout presiding Easter Sunday, April 12, 10:00 a.m. Easter Mass, Bishop Knestout presiding *Please note: The digital platforms could be subject to change for any reason, so please continually check with the diocesan website for the most up-to-date information regarding the livestream. [post_title] => Bishop Knestout to Celebrate Holy Week Liturgies by Livestream [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-to-celebrate-holy-week-liturgies-livestream [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-04-02 20:25:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-04-03 00:25:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120878 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [125] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120757 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-03-27 12:49:33 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-27 16:49:33 [post_content] => Despite the disruption caused by the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, the Catholic Diocese of Richmond is committed to continuing, without interruption the Independent Reconciliation Program for persons who, as minors, experienced sexual abuse by its clergy. The Claims Administrator remains fully staffed and operational and is able to accept claims online or through the mail as before. The first deadline for submitting a claim involves the submission of a short Claim Initiation Form by Friday, April 3, 2020. If you have any questions about the Program, please go to the Claims Administrator’s website at richmonddioceseirp.com, email them at ClaimsAdministrator @RichmondDioceseIRP.com, or call them at 1-888-304-0265. [post_title] => COVID-19 NOTICE: Catholic Diocese of Richmond Independent Reconciliation Program [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => covid-19-notice-catholic-diocese-of-richmond-independent-reconciliation-program [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-27 12:50:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-27 16:50:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120757 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [126] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120755 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2020-03-25 12:38:20 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-25 16:38:20 [post_content] => In response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Pope Francis said he will give an extraordinary blessing “urbi et orbi” (to the city and the world) at 6 p.m. Rome time (1 p.m. Virginia time) Friday, March 27. The formal blessing — usually given only immediately after a new pope’s election and on Christmas and Easter — carries with it a plenary indulgence for all who follow by television, internet or radio, are sorry for their sins, recite a few prescribed prayers and promise to go to confession and to receive the Eucharist as soon as possible. After reciting the Angelus prayer March 22 from the library of the Apostolic Palace, Pope Francis announced his plans for the special blessing, which, he said, would be given in an “empty” St. Peter’s Square because all of Italy is on lockdown to prevent further spread of the virus. With the public joining him only by television, internet or radio, “we will listen to the word of God, raise our prayer (and) adore the Blessed Sacrament,” he said. “At the end, I will give the benediction ‘urbi et orbi,’ to which will be connected the possibility of receiving a plenary indulgence.” An indulgence is an ancient practice of prayer and penance for the remission of the temporal punishment a person is due for sins that have been forgiven. In Catholic teaching, a person can draw on the merits of Jesus and the saints to claim the indulgence for themselves or offer it on behalf of someone who has died. From Catholic News Service and Catholic News Agency [post_title] => Pope Francis Will Give an Extraordinary Blessing on Friday, March 27 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => pope-francis-will-give-an-extraordinary-blessing-on-friday-march-27 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-27 12:38:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-27 16:38:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120755 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [127] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120544 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2020-03-25 09:43:19 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-25 13:43:19 [post_content] =>
Se lanza servicio nacional para denunciar conducta sexual impropia que involucre a obispos de los Estados Unidos
{CIUDAD} – En mayo de 2019, el papa Francisco lanzó su carta apostólica Vos estis lux mundi (“Vosotros sois la luz del mundo”) para abordar la cuestión del abuso sexual y la rendición de cuentas de los obispos en la Iglesia Católica mundial. Vos estis hace un llamado a los arzobispos metropolitanos para que asuman las responsabilidades de recibir y evaluar denuncias concernientes a abuso sexual y conducta impropia relacionada que involucren a obispos. En junio de 2019, un mes después de que el papa Francisco emitiera su orden, los obispos de los Estados Unidos se reunieron en su asamblea general en Baltimore y aprobaron el plan de implementación para llevar a cabo las directivas del Santo Padre aquí en los Estados Unidos. Como parte de este compromiso continuo para llevar a cabo Vos estis, se ha establecido el Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting Service (CBAR), o Servicio de Denuncias de Abusos de Obispos Católicos. El servicio es operado por Convercent, Inc., una entidad externa e independiente que presta servicios a instituciones privadas para admitir sus denuncias sobre temas delicados como el acoso sexual a través de una plataforma segura, confidencial y profesional. Las personas individuales pueden acudir a ReportBishopAbuse.org para presentar una denuncia. Las denuncias también se aceptan a través del (800) 276-1562. Cuando se reciba una denuncia, esta será remitida al arzobispo metropolitano local, quien asumirá la responsabilidad de evaluarla inicialmente. {{EL ARZOBISPO METROPOLITANO} de {SEDE} es el metropolitano que preside esta provincia, que abarca las siguientes diócesis: {ENUMERAR DIÓCESIS SUFRAGÁNEAS} / o / {SEDE SUFRAGÁNEA} es una diócesis sufragánea de la {SEDE METROPOLITANA} y nuestro metropolitano es {ARZOBISPO METROPOLITANO}. En el caso de que se reciba una denuncia que se refiera a {ARZOBISPO METROPOLITANO}, será remitida a {OBISPO SUFRAGÁNEO MÁS ANTIGUO}, quien es el obispo sufragáneo de mayor antigüedad en esta provincia local. El servicio de Denuncias de Abusos de Obispos Católicos permite a personas individuales transmitir a las autoridades de la Iglesia cualquier denuncia sobre un obispo católico estadounidense que haya hecho lo siguiente: • obligar a alguien a realizar o someterse a actos sexuales mediante violencia, amenaza o abuso de autoridad; • realizar actos sexuales con un menor o una persona vulnerable; • producir, exhibir, poseer o distribuir pornografía infantil, o reclutar o inducir a un menor o una persona vulnerable a participar en exhibiciones pornográficas; o, un obispo diocesano o eparquial, o un clérigo que supervisa una diócesis o eparquía en ausencia de un obispo diocesano o eparquial, que haya interferido intencionalmente con una investigación civil o eclesiástica sobre acusaciones de abuso sexual cometido por otro clérigo o religioso. El Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting Service (CBAR), o Servicio de Denuncias de Abusos de Obispos Católicos, no reemplaza los sistemas de presentación de denuncias existentes para quejas contra sacerdotes, diáconos, religiosos o laicos. CBAR fue diseñado para responder solamente a quejas contra obispos por cuestiones relacionadas con conducta sexual impropia. Las denuncias de conducta sexual impropia por parte de cualquier persona en el ministerio diocesano que no sea obispo, tales como sacerdotes, diáconos, hermanos y hermanas religiosos, o laicos que trabajan o hacen voluntariado para la Iglesia, deben seguir siendo manejadas conforme a la política de protección infantil de {SEDE}, (véase {insertar hipervínculo a su PPI}), y ante las autoridades civiles correspondientes. Para obtener más información sobre el servicio de denuncias y cómo funciona, visite: ReportBishopAbuse.org. Si bien el mandato del papa Francisco en Vos estis se hace eco de muchas de las prácticas que la Iglesia Católica en los Estados Unidos ya ha implementado desde 2002 con el Estatuto para la Protección de Niños y Jóvenes, esta nueva orden se aplica a los obispos y a la Iglesia Católica mundial, dejando en claro la preocupación del papa sobre la cuestión del abuso sexual en la Iglesia a nivel global.# # #
[post_title] => Se lanza servicio nacional para denunciar conducta sexual impropia que involucre a obispos de los Estados Unidos [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => se-lanza-servicio-nacional-para-denunciar-conducta-sexual-impropia-que-involucre-a-obispos-de-los-estados-unidos [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-31 10:10:15 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-31 14:10:15 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120544 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [128] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120542 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2020-03-25 09:40:41 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-25 13:40:41 [post_content] =>Nationwide Service to Report Sexual Misconduct Involving U.S. Bishops Launched
For Immediate Release: March 25, 2020
RICHMOND, Va. – In May 2019, Pope Francis released his apostolic letter, “Vos estis lux mundi” (“You are the light of the world”) to address the issue of sexual abuse and bishop accountability in the global Catholic Church. “Vos estis” calls upon the metropolitan archbishops to undertake the responsibilities for receiving and assessing reports involving bishops that pertain to sexual abuse and related misconduct. In June 2019, one month after Pope Francis issued his order, the bishops of the United States convened for their general assembly in Baltimore and approved the implementation plan for carrying out the directives of the Holy Father here in the United States. As part of this ongoing commitment to carrying out “Vos estis,” the Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting Service (CBAR) was established. The service is operated by Convercent, Inc., an independent, third-party entity that provides intake services to private institutions for reports of sensitive topics such as sexual harassment through a secure, confidential and professional platform. Individuals may go to ReportBishopAbuse.org in order to make a report. Reports are also accepted via (800) 276-1562. When a report is received, it will be forwarded to the local metropolitan archbishop who will undertake the responsibility of initially assessing the report. Archbishop William E. Lori of the Archdiocese of Baltimore is the metropolitan who presides over this province, which includes the following dioceses: Arlington, Richmond, Wheeling-Charleston and Wilmington. In the event that a report is received that concerns Archbishop Lori, then it will be forwarded to Bishop William F. Malooly of the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington, who is the senior suffragan bishop of this local province. The Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting service allows for individuals to relay to Church authorities any reports of a U.S. Catholic bishop who has: forced someone to perform or to submit to sexual acts through violence, threat or abuse of authority; performed sexual acts with a minor or a vulnerable person; produced, exhibited, possessed or distributed child pornography, or recruited or induced a minor or a vulnerable person to participate in pornographic exhibitions; or a diocesan or eparchial bishop, or a cleric overseeing a diocese/eparchy in the absence of a diocesan or eparchial bishop, who has intentionally interfered with a civil or Church investigation into allegations of sexual abuse committed by another cleric or religious. The Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting Service (CBAR) does not replace existing reporting systems for complaints against priests, deacons, religious or laity. CBAR was designed to respond only to complaints against bishops for issues related to sexual misconduct. The reporting of sexual misconduct by anyone in diocesan ministry who is not a bishop, such as priests, deacons, religious brothers and sisters, or lay persons working or volunteering for the Church, should continue to be handled in accordance with the Catholic Diocese of Richmond’s child protection policy and with proper civil authorities. While the mandate by Pope Francis in “Vos estis” echoes many of the practices that the Catholic Church in the United States has already implemented since 2002 with the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People,” this new order applies to the bishops and to the worldwide Catholic Church, making clear the pope’s concern of the issue of sexual abuse in the Church at a global level.# # #
[post_title] => Nationwide Service to Report Sexual Misconduct Involving U.S. Bishops Launched [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => nationwide-service-to-report-sexual-misconduct-involving-u-s-bishops-launched [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-31 10:08:36 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-31 14:08:36 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120542 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [129] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120574 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-03-23 15:44:42 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-23 19:44:42 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: March 23, 2020 This morning (Monday), Bishop Barry C. Knestout received notification from his healthcare provider that he has tested negative for the coronavirus (COVID-19). Bishop Knestout entered self-isolation on Saturday, March 14, after experiencing cold-like symptoms. Due to his substantial travel schedule the previous two weeks and because of the many meetings and encounters his schedule included, Bishop Knestout decided to proceed with the COVID-19 test out of care and caution for the community. Bishop Knestout received the COVID-19 test Wednesday, March 18. “I want to thank the healthcare professionals and our first responders for their courage and sacrifice as they place themselves in harm’s way to care for our communities throughout our diocese,” said Bishop Knestout. “I am also very grateful to all of you who have kept me in your prayers or who have sent me well wishes and notes of encouragement. I ask for your continued prayers for those who have died from this virus and for those who remain in self-isolation because of it. Please join me in prayer during this difficult time as we ask for God’s grace and Our Lady’s intercession for our nation and our diocese.” In these extraordinary times, when public Masses are suspended and lives are at risk and as the diocese commemorates its 200th anniversary this year, Bishop Knestout dedicated (consecrated) our diocese to the Immaculate Heart of Mary asking her special intercession and to the Sacred Heart of Jesus asking for grace and mercy. The dedication took place Sunday (March 22) during private Mass at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. You can watch the livestream of the Mass at https://richmonddiocese.org/march-22-mass/.###
[post_title] => COVID-19 Test Results are Negative for Bishop of Richmond [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => covid-19-test-results-are-negative-for-bishop-of-richmond [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-24 15:47:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-24 19:47:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120574 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [130] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120439 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-03-18 15:00:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-18 19:00:07 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: March 18, 2020###
[post_title] => Bishop Barry C. Knestout Self-Quarantines as a Precaution [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-barry-c-knestout-self-quarantines-as-a-precaution [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-24 15:46:55 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-24 19:46:55 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120439 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [131] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120400 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-03-17 12:07:26 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-17 16:07:26 [post_content] => March 17, 2020 WASHINGTON – The Executive Committee of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a statement in support of Catholic Relief Services. The full statement follows: “In the name of our Catholic faith, the donors, staff, and volunteers of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) deliver life-saving food, medicine, shelter, and training to the most vulnerable of our sisters and brothers around the world. They do this work often in remote, dangerous places that most people would fear to visit. We extend our prayers and gratitude for this courageous witness of Christ’s mercy. “The humanitarian relief efforts of CRS are grounded in the loving teachings of the Catholic Church. CRS stands in firm defense of life. Criticisms to the contrary should not detract from the powerful impact your donations have on the lives of otherwise forgotten suffering populations. “We have confidence in the thorough vetting system utilized by CRS by which complaints are investigated and corrective action taken, if necessary. CRS works alongside other relief agencies that may not share our teaching. In these instances, CRS keeps its work distinct. “We firmly stand with the personnel of Catholic Relief Services in their solidarity to the least among us. Together, we affirm the sacredness of every human life from the moment of conception until natural death.”###
[post_title] => Statement of the U.S. Bishops’ Executive Committee: Catholic Relief Services Delivers the Hope of Christ to Where Human Suffering is Worst [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-of-the-u-s-bishops-executive-committee-catholic-relief-services-delivers-the-hope-of-christ-to-where-human-suffering-is-worst [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-17 12:07:26 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-17 16:07:26 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120400 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [132] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120397 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-03-16 18:17:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-16 22:17:58 [post_content] => INFORMACION ACTUALIZADA: 17 de marzo de 2020 Monseñor Barry C. Knestout ha prohibido las aglomeraciones con más de 10 personas a todos los ministerio dentro de la Diócesis Católica de Richmond. Esta es una información actualizada del comunicado de prensa emitido el 16 de marzo por la diócesis, tomando en cuenta la conferencia de prensa del 17 de marzo del Gobernador Ralph Northam en la cual anunció que las aglomeraciones con más de 10 personas están prohibidas dentro del Commonwealth.###
[post_title] => Monseñor Knestout Ordena la Suspensión de todas las Misas Públicas en la Diócesis Católica de Richmond [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => monsenor-knestout-ordena-la-suspension-de-todas-las-misas-publicas-en-la-diocesis-catolica-de-richmond [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-17 15:08:19 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-17 19:08:19 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120397 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [133] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120367 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-03-16 15:06:30 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-16 19:06:30 [post_content] => UPDATED March 17, 2020 Bishop Barry C. Knestout has prohibited gatherings of more than 10 people for any ministry within the Catholic Diocese of Richmond. This is an updated directive from the March 16 press release issued by the diocese in light of Governor Ralph Northam’s press conference on Tuesday, March 17, in which he announced that gatherings of 10 or more people will be banned within the commonwealth.###
[post_title] => Bishop Knestout Directs the Suspension of All Public Masses in the Catholic Diocese of Richmond [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-directs-the-suspension-of-all-public-masses-in-the-catholic-diocese-of-richmond [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-17 14:27:29 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-17 18:27:29 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120367 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [134] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120362 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-03-16 14:32:08 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-16 18:32:08 [post_content] => UPDATED March 17, 2020 Bishop Barry C. Knestout has prohibited gatherings of more than 10 people for any ministry within the Catholic Diocese of Richmond. This is an updated directive from the March 16 press release issued by the diocese in light of Governor Ralph Northam’s press conference on Tuesday, March 17, in which he announced that gatherings of 10 or more people will be banned within the commonwealth.March 16, 2020
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, As anxiety and concerns about the possible spread of COVID-19 takes root throughout this land and so much of the world, the Lord is speaking to us, calling us to a deeper relationship with him. This age may seem to be a time of fear and isolation, but we have an opportunity to see it in a new light, as a retreat into the desert with Our Lord and to encounter God in solitude and prayer. As Psalm 91 says:“You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the plague that prowls in the darkness, nor the scourge that lays waste at noon. A thousand may fall at our side, ten thousand fall at your right, you it will never approach; his faithfulness is buckler and shield.”
Given the necessary restrictions to public gatherings in the Commonwealth of Virginia, to ensure the common good, to provide for public health and safety, and yet to maintain the mission of the Church allowing access to the sacraments, to Church teaching and to works of charity in a way appropriate to the circumstances of our age, as well as to renew our spiritual vitality as a diocese during a time of Jubilee, I am instructing the following to take place within our diocese. As a suspension of all public celebrations of Mass, on Sundays, holy days and weekdays in the Diocese of Richmond takes place, and as the days grow longer and the light of spring begins to shine, opening our eyes to the goodness of God, I invite all the faithful in their homes and in the solitude of their hearts to draw close to Christ our light in prayer and interior desire for the Lord who dwells within our hearts – asking for the grace of forgiveness, recovery of our spiritual sight and of an awakening of desire for God to be strengthened within us. This weekend, during a private celebration of Mass at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart and in the midst of our Jubilee year, I will celebrate Mass without a congregation, asking God’s grace and forgiveness, consecrating our diocese to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. So that you may join me in this moment, it will be streamed live for the faithful. Each priest is to celebrate his daily Mass in private in the church or a chapel on behalf of the intentions of his parish and for the universal Church to assist all those affected by COVID-19. For the time being, I am instructing that during the daylight hours all of our parish churches are to keep their doors open for the possibility of private prayer or devotion. As the People of God of necessity go to the grocery store for food, they can also drop by their parish church to sustain their spiritual lives. If quarantines or greater public restrictions are put in place limiting to a greater degree public movement and gatherings, or if more than 50 people recommended by the CDC gather in the church building, it will be closed to further access from outside. While open, a porter, assigned by the pastor, is to be stationed during the daylight hours at the one unlocked door of the church so that no more than 50 people at any one time may be in the Church. Individually, and always keeping an appropriate social distance from one another, parishioners are free, during a time of fear and uncertainty, to come at their discretion during the day for personal devotion, communion by desire, to pray the rosary or the Stations of the Cross. I am also asking at this time that the Blessed Sacrament be move to the center of the large or main body of the church. Our Lord is to be reserved and secured in the tabernacle, clearly visible in the larger main body of the church throughout daylight hours especially Saturday and Sunday - so that during private devotion and prayer, appropriate social distancing can be maintained, which is impossible in the smaller adoration chapels. Priests are to be available for personal confessions at specific times of the day in a large adjacent room that would allow security, limited access and provide at least six feet of space between them and any penitent. Pastoral care by the priest to the sick is of utmost importance during this time. If a priest is unable to visit the sick for whatever reason or concerned with visiting sick because he fits one of the vulnerable categories, he will contact his dean. Communion will not normally be brought to any other parishioner who is homebound or who cannot attend Mass. Prayers for communion by desire will be widely available in the church and the parish website. Communion, if requested, will be brought to those who are near death when administering Viaticum. Lay volunteers will not be visiting the sick in any official capacity. Deacons may visit the sick using their discretion, taking into consideration their age or immunocompromised status. Essential charitable efforts to the poor and vulnerable will continue with some adaptations. Restrictions will be in place for no more than 25 people in a building at a time. It will be recommended that only individuals who are not within vulnerable groups or immunocompromised be the ones to assist the poor. Hot food service or seated food service in soup kitchens will be discontinued and replaced by grab-and-go options. All surfaces, including restrooms, must be sanitized frequently. Drop-off locations for donations should be outside the main facility thus limiting those who may be exposed to larger groups. With these provisions in place, we will continue with the Church’s mission: teaching the faith, celebrating the sacraments as needed in this age, and care for the poor, even as we support the common good and assure the health and well-being of our neighbor. As the world responds to this emergency, we turn our attention to the Holy Spirit to give us strength and courage in times of trial and suffering. We offer our prayers to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and ask the intercession of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. May we know the depths of the Lord’s merciful love and may Our Lady keep us in the mantle of her protection to intercede for us in our time of need. With the assurance of prayers for you and all affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, I am,Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverend Barry C. Knestout Bishop of Richmond
[post_title] => Bishop Knestout Writes Letter to the Faithful in Regard to COVID-19 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-writes-letter-to-the-faithful-in-regard-to-covid-19 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-17 15:05:59 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-17 19:05:59 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120362 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [135] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120336 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-03-13 16:11:56 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-13 20:11:56 [post_content] => March 13, 2020 WASHINGTON – Earlier today, Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), issued a reflection and prayer on Coronavirus (COVID-19). His statement is part of the USCCB’s ongoing engagement on the issue over the last several weeks. Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, issued a statement encouraging lawmakers to consider measures providing relief and aid to those suffering from COVID-19, those affected by workplace closures and other disruptions, and prayers for those suffering from the virus and for healthcare providers. In response to news of progression of COVID-19 outbreaks in other parts of the world, Bishop David J. Malloy of Rockford, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on International Justice and Peace, issued a statement with Catholic Relief Services and the Catholic Health Association of the United States that addressed the Catholic response to the outbreak. The faithful are encouraged to consult their local (arch)diocese or (arch)eparchy as to local directives on the celebration of the sacraments. The USCCB’s Committee on Divine Worship has shared helpful considerations with the U.S. bishops regarding their role in regulating liturgical celebrations as they make decisions for their respective dioceses in the wake of growing public health concerns. The considerations include: reminding parishes to use common sense hygiene practices; reminding Catholics that they are not obligated to attend Mass if they are sick; reminding bishops that they may suspend the distribution of Holy Communion by the chalice (cup), and suspend physical contact at the sign of peace; in more serious circumstances, they may suspend public liturgical celebrations. The USCCB, as well as the Confraternity on Christine Doctrine (CCD) and the International Commission on English in the Liturgy (ICEL), have waived permission requirements for prayers and readings in both English and Spanish to allow dioceses to livestream Masses during this time as social distancing measures are implemented. [post_title] => USCCB Statements on Coronavirus (COVID-19) [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => usccb-statements-on-coronavirus-covid-19 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-13 16:11:56 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-13 20:11:56 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120336 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [136] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120331 [post_author] => 15 [post_date] => 2020-03-13 13:12:47 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-13 17:12:47 [post_content] => March 13, 2020 WASHINGTON- Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, has issued the following regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19):With the worldwide outbreak of the coronavirus, we are confronted once more with the fragility of our lives, and again we are reminded of our common humanity — that the peoples of this world are our brothers and sisters, that we are all one family under God.
God does not abandon us, he goes with us even now in this time of trial and testing. In this moment, it is important for us to anchor our hearts in the hope that we have in Jesus Christ. Now is the time to intensify our prayers and sacrifices for the love of God and the love of our neighbor. Let us draw closer to one another in our love for him, and rediscover the things that truly matter in our lives. United with our Holy Father Pope Francis, let us pray in solidarity for our brothers and sisters here and around the world who are sick. Let us pray for those who have lost loved ones to this virus. May God console them and grant them peace. We pray also for doctors, nurses, and caregivers, for public health officials and all civic leaders. May God grant them courage and prudence as they seek to respond to this emergency with compassion and in service to the common good. In this time of need, I invite all the faithful to seek together the maternal intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and I share this prayer with you: Holy Virgin of Guadalupe, Queen of the Angels and Mother of the Americas. We fly to you today as your beloved children. We ask you to intercede for us with your Son, as you did at the wedding in Cana. Pray for us, loving Mother, and gain for our nation and world, and for all our families and loved ones, the protection of your holy angels, that we may be spared the worst of this illness. For those already afflicted, we ask you to obtain the grace of healing and deliverance. Hear the cries of those who are vulnerable and fearful, wipe away their tears and help them to trust. In this time of trial and testing, teach all of us in the Church to love one another and to be patient and kind. Help us to bring the peace of Jesus to our land and to our hearts. We come to you with confidence, knowing that you truly are our compassionate mother, health of the sick and cause of our joy. Shelter us under the mantle of your protection, keep us in the embrace of your arms, help us always to know the love of your Son, Jesus. Amen.
###
[post_title] => USCCB President’s Reflection and Prayer During Coronavirus [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => usccb-presidents-reflection-and-prayer-during-coronavirus [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-13 16:13:38 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-13 20:13:38 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120331 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [137] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120267 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2020-03-11 11:57:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-11 15:57:37 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: March 11, 2020Bishop Knestout Authorizes Further Safety Guidelines in Response to the Coronavirus
The Most Rev. Barry C. Knestout, bishop of Richmond, approved additional directives for the Catholic Diocese of Richmond as a result of the rapidly changing circumstances involving the coronavirus (COVID-19) affecting the United States. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has now confirmed multiple cases within the Commonwealth. Bishop Knestout is instructing the following liturgical guidelines to take effect immediately in all parishes, schools, residential adult care centers, and campus ministries within the diocese:###
[post_title] => Bishop Knestout Authorizes Further Safety Guidelines in Response to the Coronavirus [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-authorizes-further-safety-guidelines-in-response-to-the-coronavirus [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-03-11 12:02:06 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-03-11 16:02:06 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=120267 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [138] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 120189 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-03-06 10:51:41 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-03-06 15:51:41 [post_content] => With no members of the General Assembly in the congregation, Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of the Diocese of Arlington told the more than 200 people who attended Virginia Vespers at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, “They are where they’re supposed to be, and we are where we’re supposed to be — praying for them.” According to Jeff Caruso, executive director of the Virginia Catholic Conference, sponsor of the March 5 event, the legislators were absent because they were in session that evening “and would probably go late into the morning.” [caption id="attachment_120190" align="aligncenter" width="867"]###
[post_title] => Catholic Response to Outbreak of Coronavirus [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catholic-response-to-outbreak-of-coronavirus [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-02-27 15:38:47 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-02-27 20:38:47 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119930 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [141] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119925 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-02-27 13:47:45 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-02-27 18:47:45 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: February 27, 2020 The Catholic Diocese of Richmond is monitoring the latest information as it relates to the coronavirus (COVID-19), a respiratory illness that has spread internationally. The Virginia Health Department has stated it is investigating reports of illnesses associated with the coronavirus, however, at this time there are no confirmed cases in Virginia. Read: http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/surveillance-and-investigation/novel-coronavirus/ Currently, the diocese has not placed any restrictions on the use of the chalice for holy Communion or the exchange of the Sign of Peace during Mass. The diocesan Office of Worship has prepared guidance for pastors under the current circumstances and during the influenza season, which is normal practice. You can read the guidelines by visiting the Office of Worship website: http://www.cdrworship.org/guidelines-and-policies. Additionally, no one is under an obligation to receive from the chalice or shake hands during the Sign of Peace. If there is great alarm, pastors may consider discontinuing – temporarily – the practice of offering communion from the chalice. We continue to hold in prayer all health care workers managing the effort to combat this outbreak globally and all communities affected by the situation.###
[post_title] => Catholic Diocese of Richmond Statement on Safety During Coronavirus Outbreak [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catholic-diocese-of-richmond-statement-on-safety-during-coronavirus-outbreak [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-02-27 13:47:45 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-02-27 18:47:45 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119925 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [142] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119796 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2020-02-17 09:50:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-02-17 14:50:07 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: February 17, 2020Catholic Diocese of Richmond Announces Independent Reconciliation Program
Today, the Catholic Diocese of Richmond announces the establishment of the Independent Reconciliation Program (“Program”) which aims to assist in the healing of those who were sexually abused as minors by Catholic clergy. The Program is independently administered by BrownGreer PLC, a Richmond based and nationally recognized firm specializing in settlement administration. For those wishing to learn more about the Program and submitting a claim, please visit the Program website: www.RichmondDioceseIRP.com Fulfilling a commitment Bishop Barry C. Knestout made in 2018, the Program is part of an ongoing reconciliation process to assist victim survivors in their healing. This action represents another step in the “building blocks of renewal in this local Church” that Bishop Knestout spoke to in his pastoral letter “From Tragedy to Hope” published September 14, 2018. Today’s announcement is one of multiple steps Bishop Knestout will take as the diocese expands its healing ministry to assist victim survivors. In his letter to the faithful of the diocese today, Bishop Knestout said, “One of my most important pastoral responsibilities is to reach out to victim survivors of clergy sexual abuse, and to be a resource for them on their paths of healing.” “We have watched as dioceses throughout the country have embraced reconciliation programs similar to this program and noted the benefit to victim survivors,” Bishop Knestout added. “This program – designed and managed by a nationally recognized and highly respected, independent claims administrator – gives victim survivors an opportunity to receive monetary payment in a manner that is compassionate.” Bishop Knestout continued, “We will never be able to fully compensate for the harm done and we recognize there are many routes that might be followed to achieve justice. We believe this to be the best course for our diocese to reach a just reconciliation with our victim survivors.” You can read the entire letter by visiting www.richmonddiocese.org. The Catholic Diocese of Richmond also has a website to address our ongoing commitment to support healing and reconciliation for victim survivors of sexual abuse following this announcement. Visit assistance.richmonddiocese.org for more information and frequently asked questions. While the Program will be funded by the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, no financial resources from the Annual Diocesan Appeal or the Living Our Mission Capital Campaign will be used to fund this program. Later this year, Bishop Knestout will participate in several Masses of Hope and Healing held around the diocese for victim survivors. He plans to lead a rosary for healing and protection during April which is recognized as Child Abuse Prevention Month. To learn more about the actions Bishop Knestout has taken in the diocese, visit our Pastoral Response page: https://richmonddiocese.org/diocese-response/.###
[post_title] => Catholic Diocese of Richmond Announces Independent Reconciliation Program [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => announces-independent-reconciliation-program [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-02-17 10:42:16 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-02-17 15:42:16 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119796 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [143] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119780 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-02-14 12:00:57 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-02-14 17:00:57 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: February 14, 2020Notice Regarding Rev. Msgr. Raymond A. Barton, Retired
A representative of a deceased victim has come forward with a report sharing allegations of child sexual abuse by Rev. Msgr. Raymond Barton. The report identified the victim and described details of the abuse. The incident is alleged to have occurred in the early-1970’s. The Catholic Diocese of Richmond has reported the allegations to civil authorities. Msgr. Barton, retired since 2011, is not currently serving in ministry. Msgr. Barton will not be permitted to engage in active ministry until the allegations are investigated and resolved. Msgr. Barton was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Richmond in 1966. He served as an associate pastor at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Richmond, and as a faculty member at St. John Vianney Seminary, Goochland. He was a pastor at the following parishes: Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Norfolk; Saint Nicholas Catholic Church in Virginia Beach; and Holy Comforter Catholic Church in Charlottesville. He also served as a co-pastor for Church of the Holy Apostles in Virginia Beach. Bishop Knestout remains committed to transparency and accountability when allegations of child sexual abuse are reported. He encourages anyone who knows of any misconduct or abuse on the part of a cleric or representative of the diocese to report it. Individuals who have been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, religious, lay employee or volunteer of the diocese should report abuse directly to law enforcement, including Child Protective Services (CPS) at 1-800-552-7096, and by calling the Attorney General’s Clergy Abuse Hotline at 1-833-454-9064. Individuals are also encouraged to contact the 24-hour confidential Victim’s Assistance Reporting number at 1-877-887-9603 or email vac@richmonddiocese.org to report sexual abuse.###
[post_title] => Notice Regarding Rev. Msgr. Raymond A. Barton, Retired [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => notice-regarding-rev-msgr-raymond-a-barton-retired [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-02-14 12:00:57 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-02-14 17:00:57 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119780 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [144] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119770 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-02-13 16:42:22 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-02-13 21:42:22 [post_content] => Brian T. Olszewski, The Catholic Virginian More than 1,500 people attended Mass at the Richmond Convention Center, Thursday, Feb. 13, prior to the second annual Virginia March for Life at the state capitol. Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of the Diocese of Arlington and Bishop Barry C. Knestout of the Diocese of Richmond concelebrated the Mass with more than a dozen priests from the two dioceses. In his homily, Bishop Knestout noted that in the Commonwealth the “laws and the political culture ensured life was protected in a greater way than in many other states.” But, he said, “the political winds can change rapidly and the threat to life reemerge with brutal ferocity,” noting that the 60 million lives lost to abortion since the Supreme Court legalized it in 1973 is “eight times as many lives as the entire population of (Virginia).” Bishop Knestout said that while people grieve the loss of so many lives, “There is hope.” [caption id="attachment_119772" align="aligncenter" width="571"]“Dear brothers and sisters, the time has come to banish once and for all from the continent (the American continent) every attack against life.
“We must rouse the consciences of men and women with the Gospel, in order to highlight their sublime vocation as children of God. This will inspire them to build a better America. As a matter of urgency, we must stir up a new springtime of holiness on the continent so that action and contemplation will go hand in hand.”
So may our prayer and contemplation and action and advocacy go hand in hand as we march for life and advocate for the unborn. [post_title] => Bishop Barry Knestout and Father Dan Beeman Speak of Hope at Mass for Life [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-barry-knestout-and-father-dan-beeman-speak-of-hope-at-mass-for-life [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-02-16 08:55:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-02-16 13:55:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119770 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [145] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119760 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-02-12 10:34:02 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-02-12 15:34:02 [post_content] => February 12, 2020 WASHINGTON — Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, has issued the following statement regarding the release today of Pope Francis’s Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation, Querida Amazonia. The exhortation follows upon the Special Synod of Bishops held in Rome from October 6-27, 2019 that focused on the Amazon region. Archbishop Gomez’s statement follows: “Today our Holy Father Pope Francis offers us a hopeful and challenging vision of the future of the Amazon region, one of the earth’s most sensitive and crucial ecosystems, and home to a rich diversity of cultures and peoples. The Pope reminds us that the Church serves humanity by proclaiming Jesus Christ and his Gospel of love, and he calls for an evangelization that respects the identities and histories of the Amazonian peoples and that is open to the ‘novelty of the Spirit, who is always able to create something new with the inexhaustible riches of Jesus Christ.’ “He also calls all of us in the Americas and throughout the West to examine our ‘style of life’ and to reflect on the consequences that our decisions have for the environment and for the poor. Along with my brother bishops here in the United States, I am grateful for the Holy Father’s wisdom and guidance and we pledge our continued commitment to evangelizing and building a world that is more just and fraternal and that respects the integrity of God’s creation.” You can read the full text of Querida Amazonia in English or en Español.###
[post_title] => President of U.S. Bishops’ Conference Issues Statement on Pope Francis’ Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation, "Querida Amazonia" [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-u-s-bishops-conference-issues-statement-on-pope-francis-post-synodal-apostolic-exhortation-querida-amazonia [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-02-12 10:34:02 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-02-12 15:34:02 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119760 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [146] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119739 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-02-07 14:47:21 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-02-07 19:47:21 [post_content] => [caption id="attachment_119740" align="alignright" width="300"]"I have nothing to leave or give but my life, and this I have consecrated to the Sacred Heart to be used as He wills.
"I have offered my all for conversions to God of non-Catholics in Virginia. This is what I live for and, in the case of death, what I die for. Death is not unpleasant to me, but the most beautiful and welcome event of life. Death is the messenger of God come to tell us that our novitiate is ended and to welcome us to the real life. Melancholic or morbid sentimentality is not the cause of my writing this, for I love my life here, the College, the men and Rome itself. But I have desired to die and be buried with the saints. I dare not ask God to take me lest I should be ungrateful or be trying to shirk the higher responsibilities of life; but I shall never have less to answer for—perhaps never be better ready to meet my Maker, my God, my All.
"Since I was a child I have desired to die for the love of God and for my fellow-man. Whether or not I shall receive that favor I know not but if I live, it is for the same purpose; every action of my life here is offered to God for the spread and success of the Catholic Church in Virginia. …
"I shall be of more service to my diocese in heaven than I could ever be on earth."
[post_title] => 100th Anniversary of the Death of Francis J. Parater, Servant of God [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => 100th-anniversary-of-the-death-of-francis-j-parater-servant-of-god [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-02-12 16:00:56 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-02-12 21:00:56 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119739 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [147] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119664 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-01-31 09:07:56 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-01-31 14:07:56 [post_content] => January 29, 2020 Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of the Diocese of Arlington and Bishop Barry C. Knestout of the Diocese of Richmond issued the following statement on the passage of companion abortion bills yesterday and today by the Virginia House of Delegates (HB 980) and the Virginia Senate (SB 733) respectively: We ask all Catholics to step into the public square and to be witnesses of the Gospel on which our faith is founded. Because we believe that all life is a sacred gift from God, it is imperative for all people of faith to continue to speak and act on behalf of the unborn, especially those who will die if this legislation is enacted. We are saddened and deeply disappointed that a majority of Virginia’s elected leaders have chosen to pass bills that strip Virginia law of many longstanding provisions that protect unborn children and the health and safety of women. A just society respects life from the moment of conception until natural death, and we continue to call upon the Virginia General Assembly to reject any legislation that increases abortion access. Let us pray that members of the General Assembly will be guided by the love of God in opposing legislation that will result in the death of innocent human life. At the same time, we ask for all to pray for the mothers of these children that they will give them life and that we will support them in their needs. As the Senate now takes up consideration of HB 980 and the House takes up consideration of SB 733, the Virginia Catholic Conference urges pro-life Virginians to continue to voice their strong opposition to these bills. Voices of truth must be heard by our elected officials. This year’s Virginia March for Life is extraordinarily important, and we urge people throughout both the Arlington and Richmond Catholic Dioceses to join us on February 13 to show that Virginians are pro-life and expect their legislators to vote that way.###
[post_title] => Statement by Bishop Burbidge and Bishop Knestout on Passage of Abortion Bills [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-by-bishop-burbidge-and-bishop-knestout-on-passage-of-abortion-bills [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-01-31 09:07:56 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-01-31 14:07:56 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119664 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [148] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119618 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-01-29 16:27:28 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-01-29 21:27:28 [post_content] => Bishop Barry C. Knestout, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, delivered the invocation at the Virginia House of Delegates on Wednesday, Jan. 29. Below is Bishop's full prayer. You can also watch the invocation here. "The Book of Ecclesiastes 3:1 says: 'There is an appointed time for everything and a time for every affair under the heavens.' Beyond those occasions in Ecclesiastes, we add other times and occasions as we pray today, as you begin this floor session.###
[post_title] => Director of Permanent Diaconate Announced [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => director-of-permanent-diaconate-announced [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-01-21 11:48:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-01-21 16:48:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119473 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [150] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119455 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-01-18 12:27:02 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-01-18 17:27:02 [post_content] => The Catholic Diocese of Richmond, the seventh oldest diocese in the United States, began its bicentennial celebration Saturday, Jan. 18 with Mass at Sacred Heart Parish, Norfolk. More than 600 people from the Eastern Vicariate participated in the celebration. Concelebrated by Bishop Barry C. Knestout and 42 priests, the Mass commemorated the arrival of Bishop Patrick Kelly, the first bishop of the diocese, in Virginia. [caption id="attachment_119459" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]###
[post_title] => Catholic Diocese of Richmond Statement on Announcement of Saint Gertrude and Benedictine College Preparatory [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catholic-diocese-of-richmond-statement-announcement-saint-gertrude-and-benedictine-college-preparatory [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-02-07 14:31:15 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-02-07 19:31:15 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119452 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [152] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119449 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-01-17 12:00:29 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-01-17 17:00:29 [post_content] => January 17, 2020 It is with great sadness that I have received a letter from Bishop-Elect Susan Haynes stating that, due to the controversy of the proposed use of St. Bede Catholic Church for her consecration as the bishop for the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia, she has decided to find another location for the ceremony to take place. In granting permission for this ordination to be held at St. Bede, we were welcoming, as the Fathers of the Second Vatican Council encouraged, those who have in common with us “the written Word of God; the life of grace; faith, hope and charity, with the other interior gifts of the Holy Spirit” (Decree on Ecumenism, 3). We were following the example of St. John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis who enthusiastically engaged in ecumenical outreach and hospitality. We look forward to continuing our ecumenical dialogue with the Episcopal community, and to working with Bishop-Elect Haynes in fortifying the long standing, cordial relationship between our communities and our joint service to the poor. As I assure Bishop-Elect Haynes of my prayers for her and the community she leads, I ask our Catholic faithful to pray for them, too, and to pray that the fruits of the Holy Spirit, along with humility, kindness, gentleness and joy, be expressed and strengthened in all our faith communities. You can read the statement from the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia by clicking here. [post_title] => Bishop Knestout Statement Following the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia’s Decision to Change Consecration Location [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-statement-following-the-episcopal-diocese-of-southern-virginias-decision-to-change-consecration-location [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-01-17 12:00:29 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-01-17 17:00:29 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119449 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [153] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119556 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-01-15 12:00:46 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-01-15 17:00:46 [post_content] => Bishop Barry C. Knestout and Msgr. Joseph Lehman, pastor of St. Bede Parish in Williamsburg, have issued letters regarding the use of St. Bede for the Feb. 1 consecration of Rev. Susan B. Haynes, newly-elected bishop of the Episcopalian Diocese of Southern Virginia. Read Bishop's letter here. Read Msgr. Lehman's letter here. [post_title] => Bishop Knestout and Msgr. Lehman Issue Letters Regarding Episcopalian Consecration at St. Bede [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-and-msgr-lehman-issue-letters-regarding-episcopalian-consecration-at-st-bede [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-01-23 15:21:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-01-23 20:21:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119556 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [154] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119394 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-01-09 16:25:10 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-01-09 21:25:10 [post_content] => The Virginia Catholic Conference (VCC), the public policy arm of the state’s Catholic bishops, is calling upon all Catholics to voice their opposition to a bill that threatens the affordability of private education. The bill, HB 521, was introduced in the Virginia General Assembly on Monday, Jan. 6. [caption id="attachment_119397" align="alignright" width="400"]###
[post_title] => President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Calls for Peace in Wake of Escalated Tensions with Iran [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-the-u-s-conference-of-catholic-bishops-calls-for-peace-in-wake-of-escalated-tensions-with-iran [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-01-08 14:13:31 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-01-08 19:13:31 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119381 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [156] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119336 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-01-06 10:24:48 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-01-06 15:24:48 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: January 6, 2020 The Catholic Diocese of Richmond has received confirmation from an independent auditor that it remains in compliance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. The diocese has remained in compliance since the initial audit in 2004. The Most Rev. Barry C. Knestout, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, received the notice of compliance in a letter dated Dec. 20, 2019, from Stonebridge Business Partners, Rochester, N.Y., which conducts the yearly audits for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Office of Child and Youth Protection. The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People is a comprehensive set of policies and procedures established by the USCCB in 2002 for addressing sexual abuse of minors within the context of the Catholic Church. The Charter also includes guidelines for reconciliation, healing and accountability and establishes training and background screening programs. Each year the Office of Safe Environment submits data related to its work between July 1 and June 30. The diocese participates in an on-site audit every third year. Since October 2004, the Diocese has held 3,544 child protection training sessions, known as VIRTUS: Protecting God’s Children for Adults. In the 2018-2019 audit year, there were 318 training sessions. Approximately 60,201 individuals have participated and 175 facilitators have been trained to lead a VIRTUS training session since its introduction in 2004. In April 2020, additional details and other Safe Environment data will be published in the Office of Safe Environment Annual Report. More information on the Diocese of Richmond’s Office of Safe Environment is available online.###
[post_title] => 2019 Independent Audit Determines Catholic Diocese of Richmond Remains in Compliance with Child Protection Charter [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => 2019-independent-audit-determines-catholic-diocese-of-richmond-remains-in-compliance-with-child-protection-charter [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-01-07 09:06:22 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-01-07 14:06:22 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119336 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [157] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119331 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-01-02 14:42:04 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-01-02 19:42:04 [post_content] => January 2, 2020 Bishop Knestout has released a letter detailing his final decision on the closing of Holy Cross Regional Catholic School following a Dec. 19 meeting with Holy Cross constituents. In part, Bishop writes, “Given all the facts, and having received the input from the pastors, school administrative staff and school advisory board members, as well as the advice of my staff and others, the decision stands to close Holy Cross at the end of this school year.” You can read Bishop’s full statement by clicking here. [post_title] => Bishop Knestout Releases Statement on Holy Cross Regional Catholic School [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-releases-statement-on-holy-cross-regional-catholic-school [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-01-02 14:42:04 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-01-02 19:42:04 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119331 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [158] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119322 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2020-01-02 11:37:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-01-02 16:37:00 [post_content] => The Daughters of Mary Immaculate celebrated the 100th anniversary of the founding of their order on Tuesday, Dec. 31. [caption id="attachment_119323" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]###
[post_title] => Diocese of Richmond Introduces Office of Cemetery and Funeral Services [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => diocese-of-richmond-introduces-office-of-cemetery-and-funeral-services [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-12-12 15:02:36 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-12-12 20:02:36 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=119273 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [160] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 119224 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-12-09 12:45:15 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-12-09 17:45:15 [post_content] => Bishop Barry C. Knestout returned to the Diocese of Richmond on Sunday, Dec. 8, “renewed in my episcopal commitment and sense of communion with the Holy Father, the bishops and people of dioceses throughout the U.S. and throughout the world.” Bishop Knestout had been in Rome since Dec. 1 for his ad limina visit — a visit that occurs anywhere between every five and eight years during which diocesan bishops meet with the pope and representatives of various Vatican congregations and commissions. While he had been present at three ad limina visits while serving in Washington, this is the first one Bishop Knestout attended as an ordinary, i.e., head of a diocese. [caption id="attachment_119225" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]###
[post_title] => Misconduct Allegation Against Priest of Diocese of Fall River Found to be Unsubstantiated [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => priest-of-diocese-of-fall-river-placed-on-leave-previously-served-in-richmond-diocese [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-11-26 15:26:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-11-26 20:26:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=112868 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [163] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 118996 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-11-12 15:43:18 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-11-12 20:43:18 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: November 12, 2019HOLY CROSS REGIONAL CATHOLIC SCHOOL TO CLOSE AT THE END OF THE ACADEMIC YEAR
Continued Low Enrollment and Financial Shortfalls Major Factors for School Closing
(RICHMOND, VA) – Today, the Catholic Diocese of Richmond’s Office of Catholic Schools announced that Holy Cross Regional Catholic School in Lynchburg will permanently cease operations at the end of the 2019-2020 school year in June. “More than ever, we want our schools to flourish as they form and nurture our young people in the Catholic faith,” said the Most Rev. Barry C. Knestout, bishop of Richmond. “It is with sadness that we announce the closure of a Catholic school that has been part of our diocese for 140 years. I want to express my gratitude to the many teachers, staff, administrators and families for your service and dedication to Holy Cross and the support you have given and provided to the students. Please keep the Holy Cross Catholic School community in your prayers during this time.” For the last 17 years, Holy Cross Regional Catholic School’s enrollment has declined by 61 percent between the 2001/02 academic year compared to the 2019/20 academic year. The decreased enrollment has resulted in increased financial challenges. “This announcement is painful for our Holy Cross Catholic School students, families, faculty, staff and alumni. We realize the impact this will have on them,” said Kelly M. Lazzara, superintendent, Office of Catholic Schools. “We will do all we can to support our families by offering them access to resources to assist during this period of transition. Additionally, we will work with our students so that anyone who wants to continue their Catholic education will be welcomed at one of our neighboring schools.” According to the National Catholic Education Association’s (NCEA) annual report, enrollment decreased 18 percent nationally for Catholic schools in the last decade compared to a 12 percent decline experienced by Catholic schools in the Richmond Diocese during the same time period. “The closing of a Catholic school is a decision that is not taken lightly, and the determination was made only after numerous attempts were made in recent years to support the financial operations of the school,” said Chief Financial Officer Michael J. McGee. Since 2012, the diocese offered guarantees so Holy Cross Catholic School could obtain over $3 million in low interest-rate loans to give the school time to implement strategies to grow enrollment and raise additional funds. “In addition to the financial support provided by the parishes of the diocese, the McMahon-Parater Scholarship Foundation allocated additional needs-based financial aid to Holy Cross. Even with the allocation of additional funds, the school had annual operating losses ranging from $95,000 to $360,000 in each of the past five fiscal years,” said McGee. “Unfortunately, despite these significant efforts, the financial condition of the school continued to decline to the point that closing the school became unavoidable.” Holy Cross Regional Catholic School has served the Lynchburg community with a Catholic education since 1879. It is one of six Catholic schools located in the Southwest region of the state. In all, the Richmond Diocese has 30 Catholic schools serving more than 8,400 students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The last time the diocese closed a school was Holy Trinity Catholic in Norfolk in 2010.###
[post_title] => Holy Cross Regional Catholic School to Close at the End of the Academic Year [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => holy-cross-regional-catholic-school-to-close-at-the-end-of-the-academic-year [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-11-12 15:43:18 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-11-12 20:43:18 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=118996 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [164] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 118987 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-11-12 11:51:52 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-11-12 16:51:52 [post_content] => November 12, 2019 WASHINGTON— Bishop Joe S. Vásquez, of Austin and Chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Committee on Migration, commented on three cases argued before the Supreme Court today – Department of Homeland Security v. Regents of University of California; McAleenan, Secretary of Homeland Security v. Vidal; Trump, President of U.S. v. NAACP. These cases challenge whether decisions in the lower court to repeal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) were lawful. On October 4, the USCCB, with other Catholic and evangelical partners, filed an amicus curiae brief in the cases. The brief argues that rescinding DACA without considering crucial facts underlying the program irreparably harms hundreds of thousands of families by placing them at imminent risk of separation, which violates the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), and is thus unlawful. Bishop Joe S. Vásquez offered the following statement on the hearing: “DACA youth are leaders in our parishes and significant contributors to our economy and communities. They are hard-working young people who know the United States as their only home. We continue to urge Congress and the President to work together to find a permanent legislative solution to the plight of all DREAMers, including DACA beneficiaries. In the meantime, ending DACA would disrupt DACA recipients’ continued contributions and integration to our country and could needlessly separate them from their families. Not allowing these young people to continue to utilize DACA to reach their God-given potential is against the common good and our nation’s history of welcoming the immigrant.” USCCB’s amicus curiae brief in these consolidated cases is available at: http://www.usccb.org/about/general-counsel/amicus-briefs/upload/2019-10-04-FINAL-DACA-brief.pdf.###
[post_title] => USCCB Chairmen Issue Statement on Supreme Court Cases Upholding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => usccb-chairmen-issue-statement-on-supreme-court-cases-upholding-the-deferred-action-for-childhood-arrivals-daca-program [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-11-12 11:51:52 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-11-12 16:51:52 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=118987 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [165] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 118976 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-11-12 08:47:30 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-11-12 13:47:30 [post_content] => November 11, 2019 BALTIMORE - Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, of Kansas City in Kansas, and Chairman of the Committee on Pro-Life Activities for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, addressed the body of bishops at the annual November plenary meeting of bishops about the need for improved pastoral responses to women facing unexpected or challenging pregnancies. “The challenges can be immense for women in difficult or unplanned pregnancies. 75% of women who choose abortion are low income,” said Archbishop Naumann. “Pregnant and parenting moms in need are in our parishes and our neighborhoods. Women facing challenging pregnancies should see the Church as a place where they can find help, especially with its myriad of social services and organizations dedicated to meeting the needs of people in crisis,” he continued. In his invitation to the bishops, Archbishop Naumann shared that well over 150,000 low-income mothers deliver their babies at Catholic hospitals each year, and many tens of thousands of pregnant and parenting moms are helped each year through Catholic Charities programs and other help agencies. In addition, thousands of pregnancy care centers staffed by many Catholic volunteers. Nevertheless, the archbishop noted that there are “gaps,” and “while many pregnancy help resources are appropriately coordinated at the diocesan or regional level, moms in need are best reached at the local level.” “We have well over 17,000 parishes in the United States. Each parish is best able to identify the local pregnancy help resources that are currently available and to identify potential gaps that need to be addressed. The parish community is uniquely positioned to encourage a collaboration of resources at the local level and to increase awareness of help available to mothers and families in need,” Archbishop Naumann explained. To this end, Archbishop Naumann asked the bishops present to invite their parishes to join a nationwide effort from March 25, 2020 to March 25, 2021 entitled: “Walking with Moms in Need: A Year of Service.” This Year of Service will coincide with the 25th anniversary of Evangelium Vitae (The Gospel of Life), a landmark encyclical by Pope John Paul II. The Pro-Life Committee is developing educational, pastoral, and action-oriented resources for parish use, including reflections on the teachings of Evangelium Vitae, Evangelii Gaudium, and Laudato Si; prayers for building a culture of life; tools for documenting an inventory of local resources for pregnant mothers in need; and ideas and support for improving parish responses. More information about the initiative can be found at www.usccb.org/moms-in-need###
[post_title] => Pro Life Committee Chairman Invites Bishops to Join Initiative Serving Pregnant and Parenting Mothers in Need [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => pro-life-committee-chairman-invites-bishops-to-join-initiative-serving-pregnant-and-parenting-mothers-in-need [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-11-12 08:47:30 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-11-12 13:47:30 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=118976 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [166] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 118931 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-11-04 09:21:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-11-04 14:21:16 [post_content] => The Diocesan Women’s Conference at St. Bede Parish in Williamsburg, Saturday, Nov. 2 drew 350 people from across the diocese. Keynote speakers Chika Anyanwu and Mary Lenaburg on the English track reminded the audience that God knows you, loves you and desires you and that even in our most horrific circumstances, God is always good. Keynote speakers on the Spanish track were Eva Gonzales who spoke on leadership of women and the church and Adriana Visoso who addressed women’s leadership in daily life. Look for the complete story in the Nov. 18 issue of The Catholic Virginian. [caption id="attachment_118932" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]###
The Little Sisters have served continuously in the Diocese of Richmond since 1874. For more information about the Little Sisters of the Poor, visit www.littlesistersofthepoorvirginia.org [post_title] => Bishop Barry C. Knestout’s Statement on the Little Sisters of the Poor Departing from St. Joseph’s Home [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishops-statement103019 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-10-30 10:28:57 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-10-30 14:28:57 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=118898 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [168] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 118824 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-10-21 12:35:14 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-10-21 16:35:14 [post_content] => Approximately 80 people attended the diocesan-sponsored Haiti Summit at Church of the Redeemer, Mechanicsville, Oct. 18-19. Parishioners from the Richmond Diocese and representatives from the Diocese of Hinche, Haiti participated. The focus was on sustainability – how to invest in Haiti in permanent ways, e.g., building better homes, teaching them to farm in difficult situations, establishing and running schools, including vocational ones, and hiring Haitians to do the construction work. Check out the Nov. 4 issue of The Catholic Virginian for the full story on the Haiti Summit. [caption id="attachment_118825" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]###
[post_title] => Chairman of US Bishops’ Pro-Life Committee Celebrates Launch of Respect Life Month, Commends Catholics to “Christ our Hope” [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => chairman-of-us-bishops-pro-life-committee-celebrates-launch-of-respect-life-month-commends-catholics-to-christ-our-hope [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-09-30 15:06:48 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-09-30 19:06:48 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=118514 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [173] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 118506 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-09-25 12:47:45 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-09-25 16:47:45 [post_content] => September 25, 2019 WASHINGTON, D.C.- The Vatican’s World Day for Migrants and Refugees will be held this Sunday, September 29, 2019. The theme for this year’s celebration is, “It is not just about migrants.” Bishop Joe S. Vásquez of Austin, Chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Migration, noted of the celebration: “This year’s theme for the World Day for Migrants and Refugees is an opportunity to look at the migration issue from the lens of humanity, of caring for and walking with our brothers and sisters. The World Day for Migrants and Refugees reminds us that it is not about where people come from but their unique God-given human dignity.” Vásquez noted. “It reflects our call as people of faith to welcome our brothers and sisters, promote their well-being, protect them from cruelty and human indifference, and assist in their integration into our community.” Support for migrants and refugees is particularly vital in this moment as the world is in the midst of the greatest global forced displacement crisis on record. We must continue to embrace love for our neighbor to counter the growing throwaway culture which disregards the human dignity of migrants and refugees.” Educational resources related to the upcoming World Day for Migrants and Refugees can be found by visiting the Justice for Immigrants website.###
[post_title] => World Day for Migrants and Refugees to be Celebrated on September 29 [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => world-day-for-migrants-and-refugees-to-be-celebrated-on-sunday-september-29 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-09-25 12:48:48 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-09-25 16:48:48 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=118506 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [174] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 118501 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-09-25 12:40:46 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-09-25 16:40:46 [post_content] => In preparation for the Nov. 5 elections, the Virginia Catholic Conference has put together voter education materials. A letter from Bishop Burbidge of Arlington and Bishop Knestout of Richmond is available in English and in Spanish. You can also view Faithful Citizenship in Virginia, a document that provides information on moral issues about which Catholics should be concerned. It is also available in English and in Spanish. Visit the VCC website for more information. [post_title] => Virginia Catholic Conference Releases Voter Education Resources [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => virginia-catholic-conference-releases-voter-education-resources [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-09-25 12:40:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-09-25 16:40:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=118501 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [175] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 118484 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-09-24 11:26:34 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-09-24 15:26:34 [post_content] => During a year when scandal rocked the Catholic Church, many were unsure of how successful the 2019 Annual Diocesan Appeal would be, especially following 2018 when our new bishop engaged parishioners throughout the diocese and gave the appeal great momentum. Alex Previtera, director of development and operations for the Catholic Community Foundation, increased this year’s appeal goal to $3.262 million, a figure many questioned. As of Friday, Sept. 13, $4,166,991 has been raised. Previtera said that although the number of donors has decreased by almost 5,000, the average gift is the highest it’s ever been and that many people participated in the appeal for the first time this year. “It appears by the numbers that more people are going in the direction of, ‘We need to work together to help move our Church forward,’” he said. “That’s been my impression throughout.” Previtera credits Bishop Knestout and our pastors with explaining the appeal and highlighting how donations to the Annual Diocesan Appeal benefit individual parishes. Read the full story from The Catholic Virginian. [post_title] => In Challenging Year, Annual Diocesan Appeal Tops Goal [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => in-challenging-year-annual-diocesan-appeal-tops-goal [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-11-06 10:40:57 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-11-06 15:40:57 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=118484 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [176] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 118440 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-09-23 08:27:15 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-09-23 12:27:15 [post_content] => On August 31, Deacon Charles Williams, interim director of the diocesan Office for Black Catholics, led 50 participants along Richmond’s three-mile Slave Trail for the second Slave Trail Walk hosted by his office this summer. [caption id="attachment_118441" align="alignright" width="504"]###
[post_title] => President of U.S. Bishops Conference Calls for Prayers After Deadly Hurricane Hits the Bahamas and Moves Closer to the Southeastern Coast [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-u-s-bishops-conference-calls-for-prayers-after-deadly-hurricane-hits-the-bahamas-and-moves-closer-to-the-southeastern-coast [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-09-05 09:46:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-09-05 13:46:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=118198 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [180] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 118167 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-09-03 08:37:29 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-09-03 12:37:29 [post_content] => September 1, 2019 WASHINGTON— Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, Archbishop of Galveston-Houston, and President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), issued the following statement in response to the tragic shootings in Midland and Odessa, Texas. The full statement follows: “As we travel to Sunday Mass, we do so with heavy hearts. Just a few short hours ago, less than a month after the horrific instances of gun violence in California, Texas and Ohio, yet further terrible shootings took place, this time involving random targeting of victims on roads and highways. There are reports of at least 5 fatalities, and numerous critical injuries. Once again, these horrific onslaughts demonstrate unequivocally the undeniable existence of evil in our society. I am deeply saddened to witness yet again scenes of violence and contempt for human life being repeated in our Nation’s streets. With renewed resolve, I call on all people of good will, starting with our Catholic leaders and faithful, to work tirelessly to root out the causes of such crimes. As people of faith, we must continue to pray for all the victims, and for healing in all these shattered communities that now extend across the length and breadth of our land.”###
[post_title] => USCCB President Issues Statement Following Shootings in Midland and Odessa [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => usccb-president-issues-statement-following-shootings-in-midland-and-odessa [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-09-03 08:37:29 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-09-03 12:37:29 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=118167 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [181] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 118041 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-08-27 16:00:28 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-08-27 20:00:28 [post_content] => August 27, 2019 WASHINGTON- The President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, Bishop Frank J. Dewane, Chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, and Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, Chairman of the Committee on International Justice and Peace issue the following statement regarding the fires in the Amazon: “Last Sunday, after his Angelus prayer, Pope Francis expressed concern for the fires that have developed in the Amazon, stating, ‘Let us pray that, with everyone’s commitment, they may be tamed as soon as possible.’ As bishops of the United States, we join in these heartfelt prayers and urge the faithful of our nation to support, through their petitions and concern, these efforts. As our Church begins a “Season of Creation,” culminating on October 4th, the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi, let us all consider spiritual and corporal acts of mercy towards our common home and all those living in it. We express solidarity with our brother bishops in Latin America who, through the Consejo Episcopal Latinoamericano (CELAM), have expressed their desire for a prompt extinguishment of these fires, and welcome the decision by the Group of Seven (G7) to extend financial support for these efforts.”###
[post_title] => President of the USCCB and Committee Chairmen of International Justice and Peace and Domestic Justice and Human Development issue a statement of concern regarding the fires in the Amazon [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-the-usccb-and-committee-chairmen-of-international-justice-and-peace-and-domestic-justice-and-human-development-issue-a-statement-of-concern-regarding-the-fires-in-the-amazon [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-08-27 16:00:28 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-27 20:00:28 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=118041 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [182] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 117951 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-08-21 13:44:12 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-08-21 17:44:12 [post_content] => August 21, 2019 WASHINGTON— Bishop chairmen of three committees of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) expressed support for proposed regulations from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) clarifying religious protections that may be invoked by federal contractors, including faith-based organizations. Bishop Robert J. McManus of Worcester, Chairman of the Committee for Religious Liberty, Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, FL, Chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, and Bishop James D. Conley of Lincoln, Chairman of the Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage, issued the following statement: “Faith-based groups should have the opportunity to compete on a level playing field as they seek to partner with the federal government to provide critical social services. These proposed rules protect religious liberty, a core constitutional right, by clarifying existing religious exemptions consistent with federal law and recent Supreme Court precedent. We are grateful to the Administration for taking this step, and we look forward to filing more detailed public comments with OFCCP.”###
[post_title] => USCCB Chairmen Applaud Proposed Regulations Preventing Government Discrimination Against Faith-Based Federal Contractors [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => usccb-chairmen-applaud-proposed-regulations-preventing-government-discrimination-against-faith-based-federal-contractors [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-08-21 13:44:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-21 17:44:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=117951 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [183] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 117937 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-08-19 16:43:50 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-08-19 20:43:50 [post_content] => On Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, the newly formed Diocesan Pastoral Council met for the first time with Bishop Barry Knestout. The council is composed of 18 individuals, nine men and nine women, who were selected from each of the diocese’s 15 deaneries. The Diocesan Pastoral Council is one of several advisory bodies that will provide consultation to Bishop Knestout and reflects the voice of the lay faithful on important matters of policy, pastoral initiatives, and pastoral planning. The introductory meeting provided Bishop Knestout a chance to meet the individuals who volunteered to be on the council and through the recommendations of their local deans and Bishop’s staff were elected based on their experience and leadership positions within their local churches, in the region and on the diocesan level. During the meeting, members were provided with training, orientation and expectations on how the pastoral council will function moving forward. [caption id="attachment_117938" align="aligncenter" width="504"]###
[post_title] => Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, Chairman of the USCCB Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations Expresses Gratitude for Letter from Pope Francis to Priests on the 160th Anniversary of the Death of St. John Vianney [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => cardinal-joseph-w-tobin-chairman-of-the-usccb-committee-on-clergy-consecrated-life-and-vocations-expresses-gratitude-for-letter-from-pope-francis-to-priests-on-the-160th-anniversary-of-the-death-of [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-08-08 08:58:09 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-08 12:58:09 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=117755 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [186] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 117638 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-08-05 11:08:05 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-08-05 15:08:05 [post_content] => President of United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Domestic Justice Issued a Statement After a Tragic Shooting in Dayton, Ohio###
[post_title] => President of USCCB and Domestic Justice Chairman Issued Statements Following Mass Shootings in El Paso and Dayton [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-usccb-and-domestic-justice-chairman-issued-statements-following-mass-shootings-in-el-paso-and-dayton [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-08-05 11:08:05 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-08-05 15:08:05 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=117638 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [187] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 117545 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-07-30 09:25:23 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-07-30 13:25:23 [post_content] => July 30, 2019 WASHINGTON— Bishop Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice and Chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development has issued a statement on the federal government’s decision to resume the use of the death penalty. The full statement follows: “In his address to Congress during his 2015 Apostolic visit to the United States, Pope Francis, echoing the views of his predecessors, called for ‘the global abolition of the death penalty.’ He further stated that, ‘[A] just and necessary punishment must never exclude the dimension of hope and the goal of rehabilitation.’ As the Catechism of the Catholic Church now provides, ‘The death penalty is inadmissible because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person.’ At their meeting in June, the Catholic Bishops of the United States voted overwhelmingly to update the Catechism for use by adults in the United States to reflect this position. This is consistent with comparable calls by the Bishops for over forty years, including in their 2005 statement, A Culture of Life and the Penalty of Death. In light of these long held and strongly maintained positions, I am deeply concerned by the announcement of the United States Justice Department that it will once again turn, after many years, to the death penalty as a form of punishment. I urge instead that Federal officials take this teaching into consideration, as well as the evidence showing its unfair and biased application, and abandon the announced plans to implement the death penalty once more.”###
[post_title] => Chairman of the Bishops’ Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development Issues Statement on the Death Penalty [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => chairman-of-the-bishops-committee-on-domestic-justice-and-human-development-issues-statement-on-the-death-penalty [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-07-30 09:25:23 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-07-30 13:25:23 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=117545 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [188] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 117436 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-07-23 12:03:54 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-07-23 16:03:54 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: July 23, 2019Bishop Barry C. Knestout Statement Following the Holy Father’s Appointment of the Most Reverend Mark Brennan as Bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston
I offer my congratulations and best wishes to Bishop Mark Brennan on his appointment by Pope Francis as shepherd of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston. Having known Bishop Brennan for more than 40 years, I am certain that he will guide and serve the people of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston with great pastoral care and dedication. He is a pastor’s pastor, one who is prayerful, modest and lives a simple life with an attitude of service to God and to the mission of his Church and people. Throughout my life, my path has crossed with Bishop Brennan’s many times. As a teenager, he served as parochial vicar at my home parish in Bowie, Saint Pius X. During my college years, he helped me discern my call to the priesthood and continued to offer me spiritual guidance in the years that followed. In my last year of seminary, Bishop Brennan became vocations director for the Archdiocese of Washington and was the one who provided the final recommendation to Cardinal Hickey to ordain me as a priest. I know Bishop Brennan will be a skillful administrator and provide gentle, careful and competent oversight for the financial and pastoral needs of the Wheeling-Charleston Diocese. The clergy, consecrated religious and lay faithful of the diocese will benefit greatly from his wisdom, counsel and great pastoral care. I look forward to working alongside him in the Baltimore province in the years to come. I assure Bishop Brennan of my prayers for him and that the people of our diocese will keep him in prayer as he is called to this new leadership role.###
Pope Francis Appoints the Most Reverend Mark Brennan as Bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston
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[post_title] => Chairman of U.S. Bishops’ Committee on International Justice and Peace, applauds the convening of the Second Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => chairman-of-u-s-bishops-committee-on-international-justice-and-peace-applauds-the-convening-of-the-second-ministerial-to-advance-religious-freedom [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-07-15 11:12:55 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-07-15 15:12:55 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=117308 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [191] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116911 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-07-01 12:38:36 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-07-01 16:38:36 [post_content] =>Name | Status | Affiliation |
Stanley F. Banaszek | Deceased | Religious Order Priest, Maryknoll Order |
Anthony M. Canu | Deceased | Religious Order Priest, Third Order Regular Franciscan Friars |
Patrick J. Cassidy | Deceased | Diocesan Priest |
Leonardo G. Mateo | Deceased | Extern Priest, Archdiocese of Tagbilaran (Philippines) |
Thomas D. Sykes | Deceased | Religious Order Priest, Franciscan Friars of Atonement |
Vincent The Quang Nguyen | Unknown | Extern Priest, Archdiocese of Saigon (Vietnam) |
###
[post_title] => Diocese of Richmond Adds Six Names to Credibly Accused Clergy List [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => diocese-of-richmond-adds-six-names-to-credibly-accused-clergy-list [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-28 16:16:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-28 20:16:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116790 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [193] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116842 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2019-06-27 09:55:14 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-27 13:55:14 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: June 27, 2019El Obispo Barry C. Knestout anuncia un cambio de póliza que afecta el nombramiento de edificios e instituciones diocesanas dentro de la Diócesis Católica de Richmond
Bishop Sullivan Catholic High School regresa a su primer nombre de Catholic High School
(RICHMOND, Va.) - El mismo día que se agregaron seis nombres a la lista de clérigos de la Diócesis Católica de Richmond con acusaciones creíbles y fundamentados de abuso sexual infantil, el Obispo Barry C. Knestout inició una póliza, dirigiendo a todas las instituciones diocesanas, escuelas y parroquias que se identifiquen con lo siguiente: nombres de los santos, los misterios de la fe, los títulos de Nuestra Señora o de Nuestro Señor, o el lugar donde se ha establecido el ministerio. Ya no serán nombrados por un obispo, pastor, fundador o individuo. La póliza se hace vigente hoy, 27 de junio de 2019. “Superar la tragedia del abuso no se trata solo de hacer responsable a quienes cometieron los abusos, sino también de examinar seriamente el rol y los legados complejos de las personas que deberían haber hecho más para abordar la crisis,” dijo el Obispo Knestout. “El reconocimiento honorífico continuo de estos individuos proporciona una barrera para la sanación de nuestros sobrevivientes, y queremos que los sobrevivientes sepan que les damos la bienvenida y los apoyamos en nuestra diócesis.” Actualmente, el único edificio escolar, parroquial o local diocesano que requiere un cambio debido a esta nueva póliza es Bishop Sullivan Catholic High School en Virginia Beach. La escuela regresa a su primer nombre de Catholic High School. Ella recibió su nombre en 1993 después de su mudanza a Princess Anne Road. Para más información sobre la historia, la fundación y el nombramiento de la escuela, visite: https://www.chsvb.org/about/history. La póliza no afectará las habitaciones o alas nombradas anteriormente en los edificios, instituciones, parroquias u otras escuelas diocesanas existentes dentro de la diócesis. El cambio de póliza tampoco se aplica a las placas que reconocen a donantes ni a las figuras históricas que ocuparon un cargo en una institución diocesana. “Es mi esperanza y oración que el cambio de póliza sea otra manera de continuar ayudando a los sobrevivientes de abusos en su sanación, especialmente a aquellos que, de alguna manera, han experimentado el fracaso del liderazgo de la Iglesia para abordar adecuadamente sus necesidades y preocupaciones,” dijo Obispo Knestout. Bishop Sullivan Catholic High School tendrá tiempo de transición para completar todo el trabajo asociado con el cambio de nombre de la escuela incluyendo los logotipos, letreros y uniformes. La implementación completa del cambio de nombre se llevará a cabo durante el año escolar 2019-2020. "Aunque el nombre de la escuela está cambiando, nuestra misión sigue siendo la misma, basada firmemente en la enseñanza católica", dijo Kelly Lazarra, Superintendente de la Oficina Diocesana de Escuelas Católicas. "Catholic High School se dedica a nutrir la mente, construir el carácter y formar en los valores cristianos." (Los medios de comunicación que deseen entrevistar a la directora de Catholic High School o un miembro de la Oficina Diocesana de Escuelas Católicas pueden llamar a la Directora de Comunicaciones, Deborah Cox, al 804-971-7412 para coordinar las entrevistas).###
[post_title] => El Obispo Barry C. Knestout anuncia un cambio de póliza que afecta el nombramiento de edificios e instituciones diocesanas dentro de la Diócesis Católica de Richmond [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => el-obispo-barry-c-knestout-anuncia-un-cambio-de-poliza-que-afecta-el-nombramiento-de-edificios-e-instituciones-diocesanas-dentro-de-la-diocesis-catolica-de-richmond [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-28 16:17:28 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-28 20:17:28 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116842 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [194] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116838 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2019-06-27 09:55:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-27 13:55:07 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: June 27, 2019Bishop Barry C. Knestout Announces Policy Change Affecting the Naming of Diocesan Buildings and Institutions Within the Catholic Diocese of Richmond
Bishop Sullivan Catholic High School Returns to Former Name of Catholic High School
(RICHMOND, Va.) – On the same day six names were added to the Catholic Diocese of Richmond’s list of clergy with credible and substantiated allegations of child sexual abuse, Bishop Barry C. Knestout initiated a policy directing all diocesan institutions, schools and parish buildings to only identify themselves with the following: the names of saints, the mysteries of the faith, the titles of our Lady or of our Lord, or the place where the ministry has been established. They will no longer be named after an individual bishop, pastor, founder or individual. The policy goes into effect today, June 27, 2019. “Overcoming the tragedy of abuse is not just about holding accountable those who have committed abuses, it is also about seriously examining the role and complex legacies of individuals who should have done more to address the crisis in real time,” said Bishop Knestout. “The continued honorific recognition of those individuals provides a barrier to healing for our survivors, and we want survivors to know that we welcome and support them in our diocese.” Currently, the only school building, parish or diocesan location that requires a change because of this new policy is Bishop Sullivan Catholic High School located in Virginia Beach. The school returns to its former name of Catholic High School which it was named in 1993 when it moved to its Princess Anne Road location. For more on the history, founding and naming of the school, visit: https://www.chsvb.org/about/history. The policy does not affect previously named rooms or wings in existing diocesan buildings, institutions, parishes or other schools within the diocese. The policy change also does not apply to plaques or signs recognizing donors or for historic figures who held an office within a diocesan institution. “It is my hope and prayer that the policy change is another way to continue to assist survivors of abuse in their healing, especially those who have, in any way, experienced the failure of Church leadership to adequately address their needs and concerns,” said Bishop Knestout. Bishop Sullivan Catholic High School will have time to transition to complete all work associated with the school’s name change to include logos, signs and uniforms. Fully implementing the name change will take place during the 2019-2020 school year. “While the name of the school is changing, our mission remains the same, based firmly on Catholic teaching,” said Kelly Lazarra, superintendent of the Diocesan Office of Catholic Schools. “Catholic High School is dedicated to nurturing intellect, shaping character and forming Christian values.”###
[post_title] => Bishop Barry C. Knestout Announces Policy Change Affecting the Naming of Diocesan Buildings and Institutions [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-barry-c-knestout-announces-policy-change-affecting-the-naming-of-diocesan-buildings-and-institutions-within-the-catholic-diocese-of-richmond [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-28 16:17:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-28 20:17:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116838 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [195] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116799 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2019-06-27 09:25:52 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-27 13:25:52 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: June 27, 2019 Diócesis Católica de Richmond agrega más nombres a la lista del clero (RICHMOND, Va.) - Hoy, la Diócesis de Richmond anuncia que se han agregado seis nombres a su lista de clérigos que tienen un reclamo creíble y fundamentado de abuso sexual contra un menor de edad. Los nombres se agregaron después de que se presentara información adicional y se finalizara una revisión en consulta con la Oficina Diocesana de Ambiente Seguro y la Junta de Revisión Diocesana. Los nombres de las personas con acusaciones creíbles y fundamentadas de abuso sexual infantil, con su información adicional, se pueden encontrar en el sitio web de la Diócesis de Richmond: www.richmonddiocese.org. Los seis sacerdotes añadidos son:Nombre | Estatus | Afiliación |
Stanley F. Banaszek | Fallecido | Sacerdote | Orden Religiosa, Orden de Maryknoll |
Anthony M. Canu | Fallecido | Sacerdote | Orden Religiosa, Hermanos Franciscanos Regulares de la Tercera Orden |
Patrick J. Cassidy | Fallecido | Sacerdote Diocesano |
Leonardo G. Mateo | Fallecido | Sacerdote del exterior, Arquidiócesis de Tagbilaran (Filipinas) |
Thomas D. Sykes | Fallecido | Sacerdote | Orden Religiosa, Frailes Franciscanos de la Expiación |
Vincent The Quang Nguyen | Desconocido | Sacerdote del exterior, Arquidiócesis de Saigon (Vietnam) |
###
[post_title] => Diócesis Católica de Richmond agrega más nombres a la lista del clero [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => diocese-of-richmond-adds-six-names-to-credibly-accused-clergy-list-sp [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-07-02 16:27:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-07-02 20:27:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116799 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [196] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116757 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-06-26 10:56:50 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-26 14:56:50 [post_content] => June 26, 2019 WASHINGTON—The cry of a father and his baby daughter who drowned crossing the Rio Grande reaches heaven itself. This unspeakable consequence of a failed immigration system, together with growing reports of inhumane conditions for children in the custody of the federal government at the border, shock the conscience and demand immediate action. Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo, President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, joins Bishop Joe S. Vásquez of Austin, Chairman of the USCCB Committee on Migration, in calling on the federal government to hear the cry of the poor and vulnerable. Their joint statement follows: “We join with our Holy Father Pope Francis in immense sadness, having seen the horrific images of Oscar Martinez and his daughter Angie Valeria who drowned in the Rio Grande Valley while attempting to flee persecution and enter the United States. This image cries to heaven for justice. This image silences politics. Who can look on this picture and not see the results of the failures of all of us to find a humane and just solution to the immigration crisis? Sadly, this picture shows the daily plight of our brothers and sisters. Not only does their cry reach heaven. It reaches us. And it must now reach our federal government. All people, regardless of their country of origin or legal status, are made in the image of God and should be treated with dignity and respect. Recent reports of overcrowded and unsanitary conditions are appalling and unacceptable for any person in U.S. custody, but particularly for children, who are uniquely vulnerable. Such conditions cannot be used as tools of deterrence. We can and must remain a country that provides refuge for children and families fleeing violence, persecution, and acute poverty. Congress has a duty to provide additional funding to address the needs of children in federal custody. Their supplemental appropriations bill should also increase protections for immigrant children, including heightened standards and oversight for border facilities. It is possible and necessary to care for the safety of migrant children and the security of our citizens. By putting aside partisan interests, a nation as great as ours is able to do both.”###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ President and Committee Chairman Say Horrific Death of Father and Daughter at Border and Appalling Conditions for Children are Cries that Reach Heaven Itself [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-president-and-committee-chairman-say-horrific-death-of-father-and-daughter-at-border-and-appalling-conditions-for-children-are-cries-that-reach-heaven-itself [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-26 10:56:50 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-26 14:56:50 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116757 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [197] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116667 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-06-13 23:16:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-14 03:16:32 [post_content] => June 13, 2019 BALTIMORE— Today, U.S. Catholic Bishops have approved three additional measures to address abuse and bishop accountability during their annual Spring General Assembly in Baltimore. The measures expand upon the Pope Francis’s Motu proprio and the U.S. Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. The reforms are designed to hold bishops accountable for instances of sexual misconduct against minors and vulnerable adults. The first vote, Protocol Regarding Available Non-Penal Restrictions on Bishops, passed by 212 to 4 with 1 abstention. This form of accountability provides protocols for imposing limitations on former bishops who were removed from office for grave reasons. It also empowers the USCCB president to restrict bishops removed or resigned for reasons related to sexual abuse or abuse of power. A second vote, Acknowledging Our Episcopal Commitments passed by 217 to 1 with 2 abstentions. This accountability measure implements a bishop code of conduct, including the affirmation that the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People is expanded to include bishops as well as priests and deacons. The third vote, Directives for the Implementation of the Provisions of Vos estis lux mundi Concerning Bishops and their Equivalents, presents a plan for optimal implementation of Pope Francis’s recent Motu proprio in the United States, including an outline for lay involvement. It passed by 218 to 1 with 2 abstentions. Yesterday, the body of bishops passed another bishop accountability reform, voting for the establishment of a Third-Party Reporting System for receiving confidentially, by phone and online, reports of possible violations by bishops of Vos estis lux mundi. The action item commits to activating the system no later than May 31, 2020. To view the full action item documents pertaining to bishop accountability voted on yesterday and today, please visit: www.usccb.org/meetings###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops Vote in Favor of Three Additional Bishop Accountability Measures During Baltimore General Assembly [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-vote-in-favor-of-three-additional-bishop-accountability-measures-during-baltimore-general-assembly [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-13 23:16:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-14 03:16:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116667 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [198] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116680 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-06-13 16:21:08 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-13 20:21:08 [post_content] =>###
[post_title] => U.S Bishops Approve the Revised Passage on the Death Penalty for the U.S. Catholic Catechism for Adults [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-approve-the-revised-passage-on-the-death-penalty-for-the-u-s-catholic-catechism-for-adults [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-17 16:22:53 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-17 20:22:53 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116680 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [199] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116658 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-06-13 13:27:12 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-13 17:27:12 [post_content] => [caption id="attachment_116662" align="alignright" width="320"]###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ Vote in Favor of Moving Forward on Third-Party System for Reporting Abuse Allegations Against Bishops [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-vote-in-favor-of-moving-forward-on-third-party-system-for-reporting-abuse-allegations-against-bishops [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-13 11:06:05 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-13 15:06:05 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116655 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [201] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116683 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-06-12 16:21:24 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-12 20:21:24 [post_content] =>###
[post_title] => U.S. Catholic Bishops Approve in a Provisional Vote Strategic Priorities for the 2021-24 USCCB Strategic Plan. Bishops Also Approve the National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and Life of Perm [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-catholic-bishops-approve-in-a-provisional-vote-strategic-priorities-for-the-2021-24-usccb-strategic-plan-bishops-also-approve-the-national-directory-for-the-formation-ministry-and-life-of-perm [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-17 16:22:33 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-17 20:22:33 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116683 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [202] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116592 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-06-11 14:15:02 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-11 18:15:02 [post_content] => June 11, 2019 BALTIMORE— Three new members have been appointed to serve on the National Review Board (NRB) by Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, of Galveston-Houston, President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). The NRB advises the bishops' committee on the Protection of Children and Young People, and the Secretariat for Child and Youth Protection at the USCCB. The NRB was established by the Charter for Protection of Children and Young People, which the bishops adopted in 2002. As Cardinal DiNardo said in a letter sent to all newly appointed members, "The bishops are very grateful to the Board for the work that it does and believe that it has been a tremendous help with the continued healing of the Church and protection efforts. The prudent counsel that the Board has provided has been beneficial to so many as we continue to establish cultures of protection and healing.” The three new NRB members include those with expertise in law, victim advocacy and theology and they are as follows: Elizabeth A. Hayden is a retired District Court Judge for the State of Minnesota. She is a graduate of the College of St. Benedict with a degree in Social Work. While working in that field, she held positions in a psychiatric hospital, county social services and the State Dept. of residential licensing. She received her law degree from Oklahoma City University. Subsequently, she served as a prosecutor in the office the Stearns County Attorney for six years before being appointed a District Court Judge. In her more than 23 years as a judge she presided over criminal, civil and family law cases and trials including many sexual abuse cases. She served as Chair of the MN Supreme Court Committee on the General Rules of Practice which led to a change in MN law to allow cameras in the courtroom. After being appointed by the MN Supreme Court, she served on a three-judge panel that presided over the U.S. Senate election contest of Norm Coleman vs. Al Franken. Judge Hayden was President of the Minnesota District Judges Association. She has served on the Board of Trustees of the College of St. Benedict and is currently a member of the Board of Governors of St. Thomas University School of Law. She is also a Trustee for St. Mary’s Cathedral in St. Cloud MN. Appointed by Bishop Donald Kettler she has been on the Diocesan Review Board for the Diocese of St. Cloud and is serving her second term as Chair of that Board. As a member of the CentraCare Health Foundation Board, she chairs the Grants Committee. Judge Hayden and her husband, retired Judge Charles A. Flinn live in St. Cloud MN. John N. Sheveland is Professor of Religious Studies and the current Flannery Chair of Catholic theology at Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA., where he teaches courses on Christian theology, interreligious dialogue, and religion and violence. He holds a doctorate in systematic and comparative theology from Boston College, a master’s degree in Christian theology from Yale Divinity School, and a bachelor’s degree in history and theology from the University of Portland. His current areas of research and writing include theological reflection upon traumatic wounding and upon religious violence. At Gonzaga he organizes the annual lecture series called Being Religious Inter-religiously which advances the Jesuit commitment to interreligious dialogue. He received in 2013 a Faculty Diversity Leadership Award and in 2015 an Exemplary Faculty Award from Gonzaga University. He serves on the boards of the College Theology Society and the Society of Buddhist-Christian Studies, the steering committee of the Interreligious and Interfaith Studies Group of the American Academy of Religion, the advisory board of the Currents of Encounter monograph series with Brill and is a book review editor for Horizons. His research articles have appeared in a variety of academic journals and scholarly books, and he is the author of Piety and Responsibility (Ashgate/Routledge, 2011 (2017 2nd edition). Belinda G. Taylor served as the first Victim Assistance Coordinator on contract for the Diocese of Amarillo for sixteen years and worked with three Bishops over the course of nineteen years. She served on the Bishop’s Advisory Committee and Review Board to address issues related to clergy misconduct and sexual abuse of minors by priests. Prior to retiring in 2018, Mrs. Taylor established and operated a private counseling practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor working with child and adult victims of sexual abuse, as well as providing individual, family, and play therapy. In 2003, Mrs. Taylor established an ongoing therapy support group for victims abused by clergy which allowed the group to create a training video for clergy on the effects of abuse. Through these efforts, victims were invited to participate in clergy trainings and reconnect with their church communities. As a Texas Registered Sex Offender Treatment Provider, Mrs. Taylor provided thirteen years of ongoing treatment services for registered adolescent and adult sex offenders on probation or parole. In addition, Mrs. Taylor served as the Executive Director for fifteen years at a local non-profit community center providing an array of social services from early childhood education, afterschool programs, counseling, a senior citizen center, and numerous youth programs serving predominately low-income residents struggling in poverty. In 2010, Mrs. Taylor was awarded the ‘Friend of the Child’ Mayor’s Service Award. Mrs. Taylor continues to volunteer as a Safe Environment Trainer and serves on the Amarillo Bi-City-County Public Health Board. Together, she and her husband Wayne have spent their married life farming and ranching in the Texas Panhandle. They have four adult children, seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren. [post_title] => President of U.S. Bishops Conference Appoints Three New Members of National Review Board for the Chapter for Protection of Children and Young People [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-u-s-bishops-conference-appoints-three-new-members-of-national-review-board-for-the-chapter-for-protection-of-children-and-young-people [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-11 14:15:02 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-11 18:15:02 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116592 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [203] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116565 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-06-10 12:01:44 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-10 16:01:44 [post_content] => June 7, 2019 WASHINGTON— The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) will gather for the 2019 Spring General Assembly in Baltimore, June 11-14. During the assembly, the bishops will discuss and vote on bishop accountability measures to respond to the abuse crisis and will also hear reports from the National Advisory Council and an annual progress report by the National Review Board. The bishops will also discuss and vote on the National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States (2nd edition); and on the final approval of revisions made to the second typical edition of the ICEL Gray Book of the Ordination of a Bishop, of Priests, and of Deacons, among other items. The USCCB has also launched a new website highlighting the importance of prevention, protection and accountability in response to the ongoing effort to eradicate clergy sexual abuse. As the American bishops prepare to meet in Baltimore for their Spring General Assembly next week, this new site serves as a resource detailing the steps the American bishops are taking to confront this crisis. On the site, readers can browse through the layers of the Holy Father’s Motu Proprio, the 2002 Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People and its progress, as well as the new reforms set to be discussed in Baltimore. There are also numerous readily available resources to address any instance of clergy sexual abuse. Explore the website by visiting: usccbprevention.org A live stream and satellite feed is expected to run Tuesday, June 11 from 8:30am-6pm Eastern, Wednesday, June 12, 11am-6pm Eastern and Thursday, June 13, 8:45am to 3pm. Public sessions of the general assembly discussions and votes will be available via livestream at: http://www.usccb.org/live News updates, vote totals, texts of addresses and presentations and other materials will be posted to this page: www.usccb.org/meetings as soon as possible during the general assembly.###
[post_title] => US Bishops To Meet June 11-14 In Baltimore; Assembly To Be Live Streamed, Carried Via Satellite; New Prevention Website launched [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => us-bishops-to-meet-june-11-14-in-baltimore-assembly-to-be-live-streamed-carried-via-satellite-new-prevention-website-launched [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-11 14:12:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-11 18:12:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116565 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [204] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116554 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-06-07 12:08:26 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-07 16:08:26 [post_content] => June 6, 2019 WASHINGTON—Yesterday, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that it will discontinue research conducted within the National Institutes of Health (NIH) involving the use of human fetal tissue from elective abortion and it will ensure that efforts to develop ethical alternatives are funded and accelerated. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, Kansas, Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities issued the following statement strongly commending the Trump Administration for this important pro-life action. Archbishop Naumann’s full statement follows: “We strongly commend the Trump Administration for taking actions to move our tax dollars away from research using body parts from aborted babies and toward ethical alternatives. Scavenging and commodifying the body parts of abortion victims for use in research gravely disrespects the bodies of these innocent human beings. Their remains deserve the same respect as that of any other person. To subsidize this degrading practice with our taxpayer dollars is deeply offensive to millions of Americans. Further, the use of fetal tissue procured from aborted babies also can lead to legitimizing the violence of abortion by suggesting that body parts procured in abortion are necessary for research. In truth, research using fetal tissue from aborted babies is neither ethical nor necessary. Researchers have demonstrated the ability to pursue excellence in medical research without collaborating with the abortion industry to further victimize aborted babies.”###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ Pro-Life Chairman Strongly Commends Trump Administration for Discontinuing Fetal Tissue Research at NIH [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-pro-life-chairman-strongly-commends-trump-administration-for-discontinuing-fetal-tissue-research-at-nih [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-07 13:36:45 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-07 17:36:45 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116554 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [205] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116505 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-06-05 11:25:39 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-05 15:25:39 [post_content] => [caption id="attachment_116508" align="alignright" width="401"]Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Since Father Metzger's leave of absence in December, I have received many letters and emails from the faithful who have communicated their support for Father Metzger and their concern for the complaints lodged against him. I have read your letters and emails delivered to my office.
Before responding any further, let me say that I am deeply saddened when having to announce any allegation or complaint of potential violations involving a member of the clergy within our diocese. I am profoundly aware of the hurt, pain and disruption this causes to the life of the parish.
However, my duty as a bishop requires me to investigate such matters responsibly with the help of the Diocesan Review Board and the Priest Personnel Board, so that a careful internal assessment and review of the matter can be made. As bishop I must also carefully safeguard Father Metzger's rights to due process and confidentiality in these matters. Details regarding these internal issues may not be publicly disclosed. Yet I can assure you that my intention is to always guarantee that priests are living up to their priestly promises and code of conduct, and that diocesan guidelines are being followed.
Also, in January 2018 when I became Bishop of the Diocese, I indicated to all the priests my wish to continue the diocesan practice of two (2) six-year terms for pastors, with exceptions only being made for those over the age of 65. This standard practice is also the norm approved by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Father Metzger was appointed pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish in June 2005.
Therefore, after a five-month review, and in consultation with my advisory Boards, I have determined that Father Metzger will be reassigned to serve in the Diocesan Tribunal and provide sacramental ministry to monastic religious communities, and a diocesan assisted living facility beginning July 1, 2019. I am appointing Father Eric Ayers as Pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish, effective July 1st. I anticipate your warm welcome of Father Ayers, and I am confident the transition will be a smooth one.
Remembering you always in my prayers, I commend you to the loving care of Our Lord and his Blessed Mother. May you be filled with every grace and blessing.
Most Reverend Barry C. Knestout Bishop of Richmond [post_title] => Letter from Bishop Knestout to Parishioners of Blessed Sacrament Parish [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => letter-from-bishop-knestout-to-parishioners-of-blessed-sacrament-parish [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-03 14:49:31 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-03 18:49:31 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116460 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [209] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116458 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-06-03 08:40:24 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-03 12:40:24 [post_content] => June 1,2019 WASHINGTON—Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, Florida, Chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, has issued the following statement in response to the tragic shooting at the municipal building in Virginia Beach. The full statement follows: “This past Friday afternoon, an horrific act of gun violence took place at the municipal building in Virginia Beach, Virginia. There are reports of at least twelve fatalities, and numerous critical injuries. This shooting reminds us yet again that something is fundamentally broken in our society and culture when ordinary workplaces can become scenes of violence and contempt for human life. As Americans we must deeply examine why these horrific occurrences of gun violence continue to take place in our communities, in order to root out the causes of such evils. Action is needed to attempt to reduce the frequency of these abhorrent acts through legislation and training. I call on Catholics around the country to pray for the dead and injured, as well as for healing in the community. May Jesus, whose victory over death we celebrate during this Easter Season, bring consolation and healing at this time of great sorrow.”###
[post_title] => Domestic Justice Chairman Issues Statement Following Shooting in Virginia Beach [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => domestic-justice-chairman-issues-statement-following-shooting-in-virginia-beach [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-03 08:40:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-03 12:40:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116458 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [210] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116424 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2019-06-01 17:54:24 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-06-01 21:54:24 [post_content] => Please enjoy these video highlights from the 2019 priesthood ordination!Letter From Pope Francis | Bishop Knestout's Response |
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Bishop Knestout Visits and Celebrates Mass with Two Virginia Beach Parishes Sunday June 2, 2019
“As you mourn the loss of friends, neighbors or family, I mourn with you and want to assure you of the sympathy and solidarity of all the people of the Diocese of Richmond. We join you in prayer and by being present with you to grieve the loss of the 12 souls who died and others injured in Friday’s violent shooting at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center. I hope in some small way this prayer and support brings comfort to you and to the Virginia Beach community. This is your home and I know words fall short in easing the pain of this time, but offer them to you in the hope that in being united with you in thought and prayer, we might also help you carry the burden of this loss. We feel sadness in our hearts, especially for those whom the sting of this loss is so much greater, for those who have lost a loved one. We know there is grief, and possibly also anger at the injustice of this senseless loss of innocent life. Today, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Ascension which normally is an occasion of joy and thanksgiving. But it’s difficult to celebrate when we know members within our diocese are hurting and in pain following such violent loss. It is in this time of loss that we turn to our Heavenly Father in prayer. To ease our grief – it is God who provides the strength and peace to sustain us in times of loss and distress. I invite all the faithful of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond to join me in prayer on the Feast of the Ascension for the people of Virginia Beach. We hold in prayer the many who are hurting as a result of this tragedy. We pray for the families who lost a loved one, for the injured recovering in the hospital, for the medical personnel working to comfort and care for the suffering, for our law enforcement community who so valiantly faced the danger at the Municipal Center. We pray for the co-workers mourning the loss of a friend and most especially for those who died: • Laquita Brown • Tara Gallagher • Mary Louise Gayle • Alexander Gusev • Katherine Nixon • Richard Nettleton • Christopher Rapp • Ryan Cox • Joshua Hardy • Michelle “Missy” Langer • Robert “Bobby” Williams • Herbert “Bert” Snelling May God grant them eternal rest and may the Virginia Beach community remain steadfast in their support of one another. Be assured of a continued remembrance in our prayers in the days and weeks to come.###
For Immediate Release: May 31, 2019 Bishop Knestout issued a statement following multiple deaths from a shooting at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center Complex, Friday, May 31, 2019: “As we await more information from law enforcement regarding the devastating news late this afternoon confirming 11 individuals have lost their lives in Virginia Beach, my prayers and thoughts are with the people of Virginia Beach and the community of Hampton Roads. Tonight, I will continue to pray for those who lost their lives, those who are injured, the medical personnel and first responders who are assisting the victims, families and all affected. I would ask all the faithful to pray with me during this time.” ~Bishop Barry C. Knestout [post_title] => Diocesan News on the May 31 Shooting in Virginia Beach [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-statement-following-shooting-at-virginia-beach-municipal-center [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-06-06 09:20:36 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-06-06 13:20:36 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116413 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [212] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116384 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-05-31 09:35:29 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-05-31 13:35:29 [post_content] => May 31, 2019 WASHINGTON—The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Secretariat of Child and Youth Protection has released their 2018 Annual Report – Findings and Recommendations on the Implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. The report is based on the audit findings of StoneBridge Business Partners, a specialty consulting firm headquartered in Rochester, New York, which provides forensic, internal, and compliance audit services to leading organization nation-wide. A survey on allegations conducted by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate is also included as part of the report. The 2018 report for audit year July 1, 2017 – June 30, 2018 states that 1,385 adults came forward with 1,455 allegations. Compared to 2017, the number of allegations has increased significantly due to the additional allegations received in five New York State dioceses as a result of the implementation of their Independent Reconciliation and Compensation programs. Additional data on allegations provided by CARA’s annual survey shows that more than nine in ten alleged offenders (92 percent) identified during the survey year were already deceased, already removed from ministry, already laicized or missing. Most abuse reported occurred between 1960 and 1990, with a peak in the 1970's. Twenty-six new allegations involving current minors were reported during the audit period. As of June 30, 2018, three were substantiated and the clergy were removed from ministry. These allegations came from three different dioceses. Seven allegations were unsubstantiated as of June 30, 2018. Three were categorized as "unable to be proven" and investigations were still in process for six of the allegations as of June 30, 2018. For the remaining seven allegations involving minors, two were referred to a religious order, two were reported as unknown clerics, and three were not claims of sexual abuse, but were boundary violations. During the audit period, dioceses and eparchies provided outreach and support to 472 victims/survivors and their families who reported during this audit period. Continued support was provided to 1,542 victims/survivors and their families who reported abuse in prior audit periods. Support may include counseling, spiritual assistance, support groups, and other social services. The report also notes the ongoing work of the Church in continuing the call to ensure the safety of children and vulnerable adults. In 2018, over 2.6 million background checks were conducted on Church clerics, employees, and volunteers. In addition, in 2018 over 2.6 million adults and 3.9 million children and youth have also been trained on how to identify the warning signs of abuse and how to report those signs. Regarding Charter Compliance, the report noted the following:###
[post_title] => U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Release 2018 Annual Report on the Protection of Children and Young People [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-conference-of-catholic-bishops-release-2018-annual-report-on-the-protection-of-children-and-young-people [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-31 09:35:29 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-31 13:35:29 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116384 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [213] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116353 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-05-28 08:42:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-05-28 12:42:16 [post_content] => May 24, 2019 WASHINGTON—After tornadoes killed three people in Missouri and storms brought devastation to parts of the Midwest and areas from Texas through Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa and Illinois, Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, Florida and Chairman of the U.S. Bishops’ Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, expressed grief over the lives lost and damage threatened by the tornadoes and storms, and offered prayers for recovery. The full statement follows: “I am profoundly saddened by the loss of life and the damage caused by the tornadoes and storms throughout the Midwest and related regions these past few days. As of this writing, millions of people in at least seven states have been affected by the powerful winds, rainfall and rising water levels caused by these conditions. Seven people have been killed in Missouri, Iowa and Oklahoma. Severe weather continues to be expected in this devastated area through the rest of this week. A call is made to all for prayers for the victims and their grieving families and communities. Further, now is the time to offer assistance to those facing this great loss. We are grateful that Catholic Charities and other organizations are in place working to provide for emergency needs and to help rebuild. Learn more about Catholic Charities’ efforts at https://catholiccharitiesusa.org.###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ Chairman Expresses Sorrow, Urges Prayers and Support for Recovery, After Deadly Tornadoes Hit Missouri and Storms Damage Other States in the Midwest [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-chairman-expresses-sorrow-urges-prayers-and-support-for-recovery-after-deadly-tornadoes-hit-missouri-and-storms-damage-other-states-in-the-midwest [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-28 08:42:16 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-28 12:42:16 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116353 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [214] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116197 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-05-20 09:19:28 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-05-20 13:19:28 [post_content] => UPDATE: Our livestream has concluded. You can still view the recorded livestream and liturgy guide below or visit our YouTube Channel to watch all our videos. --------------------------------------------------- The priesthood ordination begins at 10:30 a.m. Please view the worship guide to follow along with the liturgy. Rosary Brochure###
[post_title] => Anthony Ferguson Ordained to the Diaconate [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => rev-mr-anthony-ferguson-ordained-to-the-diaconate [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-20 09:43:28 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-20 13:43:28 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116252 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [217] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116221 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-05-15 12:10:54 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-05-15 16:10:54 [post_content] => May 15, 2019 In an unexpected May 14 Order, U.S. District Judge Henry Hudson reversed his own dangerous ruling of May 6 which had put Virginia’s women at even greater risk of harm from surgical abortion. However, this action only means that the question of whether or not physicians-only may perform first-trimester and second-trimester abortions will be decided at the May 20 trial. We continue to hope that the common-sense health and safety regulations enacted by the Virginia General Assembly to protect women in our state will not be struck down. Our prayers continue for a just and sensible final resolution of this case as we approach the May 20 trial. We urge Catholics and all people of good will to remain prayerful and engaged in the face of the extreme abortion agenda being imposed on our Commonwealth. The Virginia Catholic Conference is the public policy agency representing Virginia’s Catholic bishops and their two dioceses.###
[post_title] => Virginia Catholic Conference Statement on New Federal District Court Order [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => virginia-catholic-conference-statement-on-new-federal-district-court-order [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-15 12:10:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-15 16:10:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116221 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [218] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116217 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-05-15 11:42:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-05-15 15:42:35 [post_content] =>###
[post_title] => Office of Christian Formation Hosts Workshop on Maturing Adult Faith Formation [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => office-of-christian-formation-hosts-workshop-on-maturing-adult-faith-formation [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-15 12:23:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-15 16:23:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116217 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [219] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116163 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-05-10 14:32:38 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-05-10 18:32:38 [post_content] => The Diocese of Richmond’s Office of Catholic Schools honored 22 teachers at its second annual Excellence in Catholic Education Awards dinner, Thursday, May 9, at the Roslyn Center. The regional winners are: Deb Miller, St. Anne, Bristol; Kathleen Hill, Our Lady of Lourdes, Richmond; Annie Gallagher, Catholic High School, Virginia Beach.![]() |
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Deb Miller | Kathleen Hill | Annie Gallagher |
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Diana Socha |
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[post_title] => Bishop Knestout Statement on Pope Francis' Apostolic Letter [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-knestout-statement-on-pope-francis-apostolic-letter [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-13 11:20:47 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-13 15:20:47 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116159 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [221] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116156 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-05-09 16:18:56 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-05-09 20:18:56 [post_content] =>###
This statement and a Q & A list are available on the USCCB website. [post_title] => President of U.S. Bishops’ Conference Issues Statement on Pope Francis’s Motu Proprio Ordering Worldwide Response to the Evil of Sexual Abuse [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-u-s-bishops-conference-issues-statement-on-pope-franciss-motu-proprio-ordering-worldwide-response-to-the-evil-of-sexual-abuse [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-09 16:18:56 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-09 20:18:56 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116156 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [222] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 116125 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-05-08 11:28:24 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-05-08 15:28:24 [post_content] => May 8, 2019 On May 6, laws enacted by the people of Virginia were undermined, when a U.S. district court decision further advanced the extreme agenda of the abortion industry and placed Virginia’s women at ever greater risk of harm from surgical abortion. In Falls Church Medical Center v. Oliver, U.S. District Judge Henry Hudson’s decision now allows non-physicians to perform first trimester abortions in Virginia. Judge Hudson’s May 6, 2019 summary judgment opinion goes beyond Roe v. Wade and reveals the extreme measures that are being taken by pro-abortion groups to eliminate even common-sense restrictions on abortion. The case is still in progress, as several other counts that seek to expand “abortion rights” remain undecided. The case will be heard May 20 to decide whether the common-sense health and safety standards the Virginia legislature has enacted to protect pregnant women will stand. This disappointing and legally questionable decision is another example of why we must all remain vigilant and mobilized as the extreme abortion agenda continues to be advanced in Virginia. Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge, Bishop of Arlington Most Reverend Barry C. Knestout, Bishop of Richmond The statement is also available on the Virginia Catholic Conference website. [post_title] => Virginia Bishops’ Statement on Federal District Court Decision [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => virginia-bishops-statement-on-federal-district-court-decision [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-08 11:40:13 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-08 15:40:13 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=116125 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [223] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 115999 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-04-30 16:01:29 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-04-30 20:01:29 [post_content] => His Excellency Bishop Barry C. Knestout has called to holy orders six seminarians from the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, five of whom will be ordained priests of the diocese and one to be ordained as a transitional deacon, the last step on the path to priesthood. On Saturday, May 18, Bishop Knestout will ordain as transitional deacon seminarian Anthony Ferguson at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Richmond. On Saturday, June 1, Bishop Knestout will ordain to the priesthood Tochi Iwuji, Christopher Masla, Daniel Molochko, Kyle O'Connor and Cassidy Stinson at the Cathedral. The public is invited to both liturgies, which begin at 10:30 a.m. Called to be Ordained as PriestsWASHINGTON—Amidst the devastating fire taking place at the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Pairs, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, Archbishop of Galveston-Houston and President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a statement to the people of Paris. The full statement follows: “The horrific fire that is engulfing the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris is shocking and saddens us all, for this particular cathedral is not only a majestic Church, it is also a world treasure. Noble in architecture and art, it has long been a symbol of the transcendent human spirit as well as our longing for God. Our hearts go out to the Archbishop and the people of Paris, and we pray for all the people of France, entrusting all to the prayers and intercession of the Mother of God, especially the firefighters battling the fire. We are a people of hope and of the resurrection, and as devastating as this fire is, I know that the faith and love embodied by this magnificent Cathedral will grow stronger in the hearts of all Christians.”
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[post_title] => President of U.S. Bishops’ Conference Issues Statement on Notre Dame Cathedral Fire [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-u-s-bishops-conference-issues-statement-on-notre-dame-cathedral-fire [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-04-16 10:49:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-04-16 14:49:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=115852 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [228] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 115822 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-04-11 16:26:19 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-04-11 20:26:19 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: April 11, 2019 The Diocese of Richmond received a complaint from an adult alleging sexual abuse by a former employee when the individual was a minor. In keeping with diocesan policy, the adult individual was encouraged to report the allegation to the Norfolk Police Department. The Diocese of Richmond was recently informed that the accused was arrested and charged by Norfolk Police. The former employee, Mr. Daniel M. Wolfe, worked for the Diocese of Richmond as a teacher for 11 years in the 1970s to early 1980s. The alleged incident(s) was reported to the diocese as having occurred between 1978-1979 when the victim was a student at what was previously known as Norfolk Catholic High School. Most recently, Mr. Wolfe was a Latin teacher at Bishop Sullivan Catholic High School for part of the 2017-2018 school year. The diocese is cooperating fully with law enforcement regarding the allegation and will continue to do so. Out of respect for the ongoing investigation, the diocese refrains from any comment until the civil process is complete. The Diocese of Richmond urges individuals who have been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, religious, lay employee or volunteer of the diocese to report abuse directly to law enforcement, including Child Protective Services (CPS) at 800-552-7096, and by calling the Attorney General’s Clergy Abuse Hotline at 833-454-9064. Individuals are also encouraged to contact the 24-hour confidential Victim’s Assistance Reporting number at 877-887-9603 or email vac@richmonddiocese.org to report sexual abuse.###
[post_title] => Statement Regarding Daniel M. Wolfe, Former Teacher of Norfolk Catholic High School [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-regarding-daniel-m-wolfe-former-teacher-of-norfolk-catholic-high-school [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-04-11 16:26:19 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-04-11 20:26:19 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=115822 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [229] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 115783 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-04-10 10:55:28 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-04-10 14:55:28 [post_content] => Bishop Barry C. Knestout has called seminarian Anthony Ferguson to holy orders. Anthony will be ordained as a transitional deacon for the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, the last step on the road to the priesthood.###
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[post_title] => Bishop Barry C. Knestout Statement on the Announcement of Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory to the Archdiocese of Washington [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-barry-c-knestout-statement-on-the-announcement-of-archbishop-gregory-d-wilton-to-the-archdiocese-of-washington [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-04-04 15:34:13 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-04-04 19:34:13 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=115705 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [231] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 115690 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-04-03 16:14:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-04-03 20:14:37 [post_content] => [caption id="attachment_115692" align="alignright" width="350"]###
[post_title] => Bishops’ Conference Committee Chairman Welcomes Governor of California’s Declaration of Moratorium on Death Penalty [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishops-conference-committee-chairman-welcomes-governor-of-californias-declaration-of-moratorium-on-death-penalty [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-03-14 15:07:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-14 19:07:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=115366 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [236] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 115263 [post_author] => 61 [post_date] => 2019-03-08 19:02:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-03-09 00:02:13 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: March 8, 2019 The Diocese of Richmond has received a notice from the Diocese of Corpus Christi (Texas) that Fr. Leo Guarnieri, a retired priest of the Diocese of Richmond, has been accused of sexual abuse of a vulnerable adult. The allegation(s) were reported to the Diocese of Richmond, March 7, 2019. The incident is alleged to have occurred in Texas where Fr. Guarnieri currently resides in his retirement. Fr. Guarnieri denies the allegation. Following the report of the allegation, Fr. Guarnieri’s faculties have been suspended which means he cannot present himself as priest in good standing nor administer sacraments pending a review. Fr. Guarnieri was ordained as a priest for the Congregation of the Holy Cross in 1977. He served as a chaplain for the Archdiocese of Military Services in subsequent years and incardinated into the Diocese of Richmond in 1994. Upon his retirement from the military in 1999, he served in the Diocese of Richmond as pastor for Church of Saint Therese in Gloucester and as administrator of Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament in West Point until he retired in 2009. The Diocese of Richmond urges individuals who have been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, religious, lay employee or volunteer of the Diocese to report abuse directly to law enforcement, including Child Protective Services (CPS) at 1-800-552-7096, and by calling the Attorney General’s Clergy Abuse Hotline at 1-833-454-9064. Individuals are also encouraged to contact the 24-hour confidential Victim’s Assistance Reporting number at 1-877-887-9603 or email vac@richmonddiocese.org to report sexual abuse.###
[post_title] => Notice Regarding Rev. Leo J. Guarnieri, Retired [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => notice-regarding-rev-leo-j-guarnieri-retired [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-03-08 20:16:52 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-09 01:16:52 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=115263 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [237] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 115241 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-03-06 16:35:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-03-06 21:35:35 [post_content] => March 6, 2019 WASHINGTON—After tornadoes killed more than 20 people in Lee County, Alabama, and caused destruction in Georgia and surrounding states over the weekend, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, Archbishop of Galveston-Houston and President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, and Bishop Frank Dewane of Venice, FL, Chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, expressed sorrow for those in mourning and encouraged hope and generous support at the beginning of the Lenten season. The full statement follows: "It is with heavy hearts that we continue to learn about the destruction in Alabama and Georgia from tornadoes over the weekend. At the time of this writing, there are 23 confirmed dead in Alabama, including three children, many more missing, and miles of destruction of homes and communities. We offer prayers for the victims and their grieving families and friends. Now is the time to offer assistance in any way we can to those facing great difficulties. One way to do this is by donating to Catholic Charities and other organizations that are working to provide emergency needs, and to help rebuild. Our hope, in this Lenten season, as always, is in the Lord of life who has conquered death. May the Lord grant eternal rest to those who have died, and may the Holy Spirit work through all of us to give comfort to those who are grieving with generosity and love." Donations can be made to Catholic Charities USA at https://catholiccharitiesusa.org.###
[post_title] => Bishops’ Conference President and Domestic Justice Committee Chairman Express Sorrow, Urge Prayer and Support, After Deadly Tornadoes Hit Alabama and Damage Other States in the Southeast [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishops-conference-president-and-domestic-justice-committee-chairman-express-sorrow-urge-prayer-and-support-after-deadly-tornadoes-hit-alabama-and-damage-other-states-in-the-southeast [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-03-06 16:35:35 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-06 21:35:35 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=115241 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [238] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 115158 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-03-01 15:13:39 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-03-01 20:13:39 [post_content] => By Jeff Caruso, Executive Director, Virginia Catholic Conference On Monday, February 25, the U.S. Senate failed to pass the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act (BAASPA). Virginia’s U.S. Senators Warner and Kaine voted against the bill. After the vote, Senator Kaine called the bill “extremely misleading” and “unjustified and unnecessary.” Senator Kaine’s comments serve as a distraction to what the bill provides: concrete protections for extremely vulnerable infants who survive an abortion. If we cannot all agree that these most vulnerable children deserve specific protections under the law, then who does deserve such protections? In their joint statement after the vote, Bishop Burbidge and Bishop Knestout stated they were “dismayed and outraged that Virginia’s U.S. Senators Warner and Kaine voted against this critical lifesaving legislation.” They noted, “That this bill did not pass unanimously – let alone even pass at all – is appalling and beyond comprehension.” In light of the shocking action in New York – and possibly other states to follow – to remove legal protections for infants born alive during abortions, the BAASPA is clearly and critically needed now more than ever. The previously passed Born-Alive Infants Protection Act was a good start, but it was insufficient. The 2002 measure codified into law that newborns, regardless of the circumstances of their birth, are legally recognized as persons from the moment of birth if they show any signs of life. However, the 2002 law has no enforcement provision or specific protective measures for these infants. The BAASPA, on the other hand, provides clear expectations of care, requirements for transfer from abortion facility to hospital, mandatory reporting, private right of action and criminal penalties. The need for clear legal protections for these infants’ lives must be met head-on, and the BAASPA was the way to get there. According to a February 2019 “Responses to Objections” publication by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities on the BAASPA, “Unfortunately, there are numerous examples of abortion-performing doctors who did in fact leave a baby to die after a ‘failed’ abortion.” The piece cites the infamous case of Dr. Kermit Gosnell, who bragged about “snipping” the spines of newly born babies. It also mentions cases in which babies were wrapped in blankets and set aside to die, or stuffed into plastic sacks to suffocate. “Survivors,” the publication notes, “have poignantly told their stories of being dumped in a bucket of formaldehyde in a utility closet, saved from strangulation, and other direct and indirect methods of ensuring the ‘abortion’ is completed.” The BAASPA rightly insists that a doctor must – in the best interest of the child – provide the same care for a newborn child born of an abortion as he or she would for any other child born at that same gestational age. It also provides enforcement measures to protect these most vulnerable infants and the legal teeth necessary to hold doctors accountable. As the USCCB notes, “The bill does not mandate futile care or override the judgment of a doctor about whether treatment is in the best interest of the child, but it does insist that such an evaluation must be made, and it must be made in a hospital setting by someone who has not been paid to end the life of this same child.” How can we trust an abortionist to protect a newborn after he or she was paid to kill the child and failed? There is nothing misleading, unjustified or unnecessary about this bill; it provides lifesaving justice for these infants and demonstrates our national resolve to end infanticide. [post_title] => The Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act: Clearly and critically needed [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => the-born-alive-abortion-survivors-protection-act-clearly-and-critically-needed [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-03-01 15:13:39 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-01 20:13:39 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=115158 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [239] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 115115 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-02-27 13:36:46 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-02-27 18:36:46 [post_content] => February 27, 2019 WASHINGTON–Monday night, the Senate failed to advance the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act—legislation that prohibits infanticide by ensuring that a child born alive following an abortion would receive the same degree of care to preserve her life and health as would be given to any other child born alive at the same gestational age. The Senate rejected a motion to advance the bill on a vote of 53 to 44 with 3 not voting. In the Senate, 60 votes are needed to overcome a filibuster and pass a bill. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, chair of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities, issued the following statement in response: “There should be no bill easier for the Senate to pass than one that makes clear that killing newborn babies is wrong and should not be tolerated. That even one senator, let alone 44 senators voted against the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, is an injustice that should horrify and anger the American people and commit us to decisive political action. A vote against this bill is a vote to extend Roe v. Wade’s license for killing unborn children to killing newborn babies. The American people, the vast majority of whom support this bill, must demand justice for innocent children.”###
[post_title] => Catholic Bishops’ Pro-Life Chairman Says Senate Rejection of Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act should horrify and anger the American people [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => catholic-bishops-pro-life-chairman-says-senate-rejection-of-born-alive-abortion-survivors-protection-act-should-horrify-and-anger-the-american-people [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-02-27 13:36:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-02-27 18:36:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=115115 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [240] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 115059 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-02-26 08:50:39 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-02-26 13:50:39 [post_content] => The following is a Virginia Catholic Conference (VCC) statement regarding the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act. February 25, 2019###
[post_title] => Statement from Bishop Knestout Regarding Holy See Judgement on Theodore McCarrick [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-from-bishop-knestout-regarding-holy-see-judgement-on-theodore-mccarrick [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-02-19 09:20:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-02-19 14:20:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=114911 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [243] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 114909 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-02-16 10:34:27 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-02-16 15:34:27 [post_content] => February 16, 2019 WASHINGTON— Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo, Archbishop of Galveston-Houston and President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, has issued the following statement upon the decision of the Holy See announced today regarding Theodore McCarrick. Cardinal DiNardo’s Full Statement Follows: “The Holy See’s announcement regarding Theodore McCarrick is a clear signal that abuse will not be tolerated. No bishop, no matter how influential, is above the law of the Church. For all those McCarrick abused, I pray this judgement will be one small step, among many, toward healing. For us bishops, it strengthens our resolve to hold ourselves accountable to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I am grateful to Pope Francis for the determined way he has led the Church’s response. If you have suffered sexual abuse at the hands of someone within the Catholic Church, I urge you to contact local law enforcement and your local diocese or eparchy. Victims Assistance Coordinators are available to help. We are committed to healing and reconciliation.”###
[post_title] => President of U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Issues Statement on Theodore McCarrick in Response to Judgement by the Holy See [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-u-s-conference-of-catholic-bishops-issues-statement-on-theodore-mccarrick-in-response-to-judgement-by-the-holy-see [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-02-16 10:34:27 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-02-16 15:34:27 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=114909 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [244] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 114264 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-02-01 10:02:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-02-01 15:02:35 [post_content] => February 1, 2019 WASHINGTON—Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, KS and Chairman of the U.S. Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities has issued the following statement in response to the introduction of a bill in the Virginia legislature that would allow a baby to be aborted at nine months. Although the bill was defeated there, a similar bill was passed by the New York legislature and signed into law by its Governor. Archbishop Naumann’s full statement follows: “A Virginia lawmaker has introduced a bill which would allow a baby to be aborted at nine months, even if the mother is just about to give birth. This legislation shocks the conscience and is made more egregious by the Governor of Virginia suggesting the permissibility of denying care to infants born alive during the abortion. This senseless disrespect for new human life is horrifying. We join the bishops of Virginia in urging all people of good will to stand up to protect unborn and born infants from legislation that would permit their gruesome deaths.”###
[post_title] => U.S. Bishops’ Chairman on Pro-Life Activities Calls All People of Good Will to Stand Up and Protect Unborn and Born Infants [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => u-s-bishops-chairman-on-pro-life-activities-calls-all-people-of-good-will-to-stand-up-and-protect-unborn-and-born-infants [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-02-01 10:02:35 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-02-01 15:02:35 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=114264 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [245] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 114256 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-01-31 14:48:12 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-01-31 19:48:12 [post_content] => For Immediate Release: January 31, 2019###
For more about the latest measures the VCC advocated against click this link: https://vacatholic.org/action-center/ For more about the VCC and how to use your voice in matters of public policy, click this link: https://vacatholic.org [post_title] => Statement from Bishop Knestout Regarding Recent and Extreme Abortion Legislation in Virginia [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => statement-from-bishop-knestout-regarding-recent-and-extreme-abortion-legislation-in-virginia [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-02-01 10:02:52 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-02-01 15:02:52 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=114256 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [246] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 114247 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-01-30 12:10:43 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-01-30 17:10:43 [post_content] => January 30, 2019###
[post_title] => Bishop Barry C. Knestout Speaks on Evangelization at Diocesan Summit [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => bishop-barry-c-knestout-speaks-on-evangelization-at-diocesan-summit [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-01-30 12:27:27 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-01-30 17:27:27 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=114247 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [247] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 114175 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-01-28 14:43:45 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-01-28 19:43:45 [post_content] => January 28, 2019 WASHINGTON—Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of Galveston-Houston and President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services USA and Chairman of the U.S. Bishops’ Committee on International Justice and Peace, have issued the following statement in response to the January 27 bombings in and around the Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel on the Philippine island of Sulu in Jolo, Philippines. The full statement follows: “The Catholic bishops of the Philippines have condemned these attacks as ‘an act of terrorism’ and asked Christians to pray for the victims and ‘join hands with all peace-loving Muslim and indigenous people against violent extremism.’ The bombings, which occurred as people attended Mass, have been condemned by Cardinal Orlando Quevedo and Archbishop Angelito Lampon as being the ‘action of evil people with utter disregard for the sacredness of human life.’ The bishops of the United States stand in solidarity and prayer with these victims and join the bishops of the Philippines in condemning such senseless acts of violence. We invite Catholics and all men and women of good will to do the same.”###
[post_title] => President of U.S. Catholic Bishops’ Conference with Chairman of Bishops’ International Justice Committee Condemn Philippine Cathedral Bombings as “Act of Terrorism” [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-of-u-s-catholic-bishops-conference-with-chairman-of-bishops-international-justice-committee-condemn-philippine-cathedral-bombings-as-act-of-terrorism [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-01-28 14:43:45 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-01-28 19:43:45 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=114175 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [248] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 114003 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-01-18 14:55:49 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-01-18 19:55:49 [post_content] => January 18, 2019 WASHINGTON—Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City called on the faithful "to pray for an end to the human rights abuse of abortion, and for a culture of life, where through God’s grace all will come to know they are made in His Divine Image.” His statement on January 18 marks the 46th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the 1973 U.S. Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion in all 50 states. Archbishop Naumann, who gave the opening prayer at the March for Life the same day, chairs the Committee on Pro-Life Activities of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. “Protecting the life of the unborn children is the pre-eminent human rights issue of our time, not only because of the sheer magnitude of the numbers, but because abortion attacks the sanctuary of life, the family,” wrote Archbishop Naumann. “Every abortion not only destroys the life of an innocent child, but it wounds and scars mothers and fathers...in reality, the welfare of parents and their child are always intimately linked.” Naumann also made it clear that pro-life Catholics “are concerned about the life and dignity of the human person wherever it is threatened or diminished,” and highlighted the sexual abuse crisis within the Church as an example of “grave injustice” to this dignity. “The abuse of children or minors upends the pro-life ethic,” the Archbishop explained, because it is an “egregious offense against the dignity of the human person.” The Archbishop spoke of a Church “devastated by the scandal of sexual misconduct by clergy and of past instances of the failure of bishops to respond with compassion to victims of abuse and to protect adequately the members of their flock.” He urged the Church and the faithful to “seek justice for all of God’s children.” “We must do all we can to be God’s witnesses of merciful love in the world,” the Archbishop continued. “We know and give thanks for the great dignity God has given to us from the moment of conception, to be made in his image. We also must pray for the grace to remind others of this inherent dignity, in our words and in our actions.” The Archbishop encouraged all Catholics to take part in the National Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of the Unborn on January 22: “Let us pray that we can be great and effective witnesses for life, witnesses for love, witnesses for mercy.” The full text of Archbishop Naumann's message is available online at http://www.usccb.org/about/pro-life-activities/january-roe-events/2019/2019-statement-on-the-anniversary-of-roe-vs-wade.cfm###
[post_title] => Pro-Life Committee Chairman’s Roe v. Wade Anniversary Statement Encourages Faithful to be “Witnesses of Merciful Love” [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => pro-life-committee-chairmans-roe-v-wade-anniversary-statement-encourages-faithful-to-be-witnesses-of-merciful-love [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-01-18 14:55:49 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-01-18 19:55:49 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=114003 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [249] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 114001 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-01-18 14:54:51 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-01-18 19:54:51 [post_content] => January 18, 2019 WASHINGTON—Today, President Trump reiterated his enduring support for pro-life laws or policies. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, chairman of the U.S. Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities responded with the following statement: “As Chairman of the U.S. Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, I commend President Trump for announcing at today’s March for Life that he will oppose repealing or weakening any existing pro-life laws or policies. These pro-life laws and policies reflect the convictions of millions of Americans, many of whom attended today’s March, that taxpayers should not be forced to fund abortions, or organizations that promote abortion, or participate in any way in the deliberate destruction of unborn human life. We are deeply grateful for the President’s pro-life commitment, and for all the actions this administration has taken to protect unborn children and their mothers from the violence of abortion. We look forward to working with Congress and the Administration to advance policies that value human life and dignity from conception to natural death.”###
[post_title] => President Trump Announces Commitment to Uphold Pro-Life Laws [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => president-trump-announces-commitment-to-uphold-pro-life-laws [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-01-18 14:54:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-01-18 19:54:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://richmonddiocese.org/?p=114001 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [250] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 113989 [post_author] => 71 [post_date] => 2019-01-18 11:35:51 [post_date_gmt] => 2019-01-18 16:35:51 [post_content] => [caption id="attachment_113993" align="alignright" width="400"]