Wednesday, September 4, 2013

Syria: Contact your Senators and Representative

In addition to the prayer and fasting we have committed to for Saturday, perhaps we could act by contacting our elected officials.  Here's the current situation, as described by the USCCB:  During the week of September 9, Congress is expected to take up a resolution authorizing the use of military force in Syria in response to heinous chemical weapons attacks on innocent civilians.  Providentially, Pope Francis has declared September 7 a Day of Fasting and Prayer for Peace in Syria, the Middle East, and throughout the World.  In solidarity with our Holy Father, USCCB will engage in prayer, fasting and advocacy for peace in Syria.

What can we do?   Call or write your Representative and Senators.  Here's a sample of what you might say:  As Congress debates a resolution authorizing military force in Syria, I urge the Senator/Representative instead to support U.S. leadership for peace.  The Holy See, the Conference of Bishops and the Catholic community have condemned the chemical attack, but remain convinced that only dialogue can save lives and bring about peace in Syria.  In a recent letter to Secretary of State John Kerry, Bishop Richard E. Pates, Chairman of the U.S. Bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace,  wrote: "'[T]he path of dialogue and negotiation between all components of Syrian society, with the support of the international community, is the only option to put an end to the conflict....'  We ask the United States to work with other governments to obtain a ceasefire, initiate serious negotiations, provide impartial and neutral humanitarian assistance, and encourage building an inclusive society in Syria that protects the rights of all its citizens, including Christians and other minorities."  (If you click on the "write" link above, the message is included for you; simply complete the rest of the information.)

What does the Catholic Church teach us about this situation? 
Pope Francis' Declaration of a Day of Prayer and Fasting for Syria: http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/francesco/angelus/2013/documents/papa-francesco_angelus_20130901_en.html 

(Thanks to LCWR for alerting us to these resources.)


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