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The archbishop of Saint Paul and Minneapolis is calling for peace and reconciliation, following the trial of former police officer Derek Chauvin. Chauvin was found guilty of the murder of George Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man, in 2020. Archbishop Bernard Hebda said the crucified and risen Christ is an example of the healing power of forgiveness and compassion. The archbishop prayed that Christ would bring healing to the Twin Cities, comfort to Floyd’s family, and satisfaction to those who thirst for justice.
A bill that would end religious exemptions from childhood vaccine requirements has advanced in the Connecticut House of Representatives. The bill has the support of Connecticut’s governor, but it still needs to pass the state Senate. There has been an increase in the number of requests for religious exemption from childhood vaccinations. In as many as 100 schools in Connecticut, vaccination rates have fallen below 95 percent. Public health officials stress the importance of high vaccination rates to protect against outbreaks. If the latest bill passes, it will go into effect in 2022.
And finally, in his general audience today, Pope Francis encouraged Catholics to read the 19th-century spiritual classic, “The Way of a Pilgrim.” The book shares the story of an unnamed pilgrim who travels across Russia, seeking to discover the secret of constant prayer. Francis said the book can help today’s Catholics better understand vocal prayer. Francis gave his address in the library of the Apostolic Palace, due to coronavirus restrictions.