By Most Reverend Gerald R. Barnes

 “Give to everyone who asks of you, and from the one who takes what is yours do not demand it back.” (Lk, 6:30)

 While it is true that we are in the season of giving, the Lord’s challenge to us in Luke’s Gospel is probably not what we had in mind. Sure, we are willing to spend our money on gifts for the ones we love, and hopefully, if we are able, we offer some of our treasure to those most in need. But to those who have wronged us? That’s a more difficult proposition.

By Bishop Gerald R. Barnes

 Since the U.S. Supreme Court’s Roe vs. Wade decision more than 40 years ago the Roman Catholic Church has been one of the most vocal and dogged opponents of legalized abortion in the national consciousness. Speaking out and lobbying against this tragic taking of human life, which has claimed an estimated 50 million people since abortion was legalized, has become a passionate ministry for many. 

By Most Reverend Gerald R. Barnes

 It’s been said that change is the only constant in life. Still, many of us struggle with change, whether it’s a new school, a new job, our children leaving home or a difficult circumstance that takes us away from a place, or a person, that has brought us comfort. In many ways this struggle occurs in the life of our Church. 

A Pastoral Letter on the Year of Mercy

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

 Pope Francis has called our Universal Church to celebrate a Holy Year inviting us to reflect, pray and put in action that which distinguishes us as a community of baptized and, at the same time, expresses the ideal to which we aspire: to be “Merciful like the Father.” 

 The following letter from Bishop Gerald Barnes is to be read at weekend Masses September 5-6.

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

 Peace be with you! As we read and reflect on the life of our Lord Jesus Christ through the Gospels, it is evident that while the Lord ministered to many, there were certain groups of people that were of particular concern to him and were often in his mind and heart. One such group was the sick. We hear this reality in the Gospel of St. Matthew, “When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them and he cured their sick” (Mt 14:14). 

By Most Reverend Gerald R. Barnes

 I am in the midst of perhaps the busiest time of my year, aka, Confirmation Season. It is truly a joyous and life giving experience for me to offer this Sacrament to so many thousands of people, as they become fully initiated in our Catholic faith. But with the size of our Diocese and the sheer number of people who are to be confirmed, it is a schedule that takes a fair amount of stamina.