Building the Kingdom of Christ, Reflections from the U.S. Bishops Meeting and the Journey Toward Advent

Reflections from the U.S. Bishops’ Meeting in Baltimore

The annual Bishops’ meeting in Baltimore last week began in a spirit of faith and fraternity. On Monday morning, the bishops gathered for prayer and reflection before we began our formal sessions. Later that day, we celebrated Mass together at the beautiful Basilica of the Assumption, the first Catholic cathedral in the United States. It was a moving sight to see so many bishops praying together, united in purpose and hope for the Church.

A Historic “Special Message” on Immigration

One of the most significant moments of the meeting was the bishops’ decision to issue a Special Message on Immigration (the first in twelve years) approved with an extraordinary 96% consensus among more than 200 bishops. I was proudly among those supporting this message. This strong unity reflects our shared concern for immigrant families who are suffering under unjust policies. The statement affirms two essential truths:

1. Every nation has the right to secure its borders
2. Every immigrant must be treated with humanity, dignity, and respect. 

These principles are not rooted in politics, rather in our Catholic faith and the Church’s commitment to uphold all human life and the common good.

Connecting Faith and Ecology, the Enduring Impact of Laudato Si’

Among several important discussions, a workshop I attended on Laudato Si’ focused on ecological awareness and climate change. The discussion was timely, given that the global COP30 climate conference was simultaneously taking place in the Amazon. It was heartening to see so many bishops eager to engage in this topic, to learn how climate change affects people, and to explore ways we can help reduce the damage being done to our planet.

Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship

We also revisited the document Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, which guides Catholics in living their civic responsibilities through a well-formed (and informed) conscience. This resource has been updated several times over the years, and we continue to reaffirm its importance in helping Catholics understand and apply the Church’s social teaching as we approach future elections.

Consecrating the Nation to the Sacred Heart

The bishops also approved plans to consecrate the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in 2026, coinciding with our nation’s 250th anniversary. This consecration will take place during our June meeting in Orlando. It will be a moment of prayer and renewal, reminding us that our hope for the nation’s future rests in Christ’s mercy and love.

Given the unpredictability of air travel, I joined Providence Bishop Bruce Lewandowski on his drive back to New England. As we traveled north on Route 95, I reflected on a renewed gratitude for the fraternity of my brother bishops and for the faithful people we serve. May our work bear fruit in justice, compassion, and peace for all God’s children.

The Journey from Christ the King to Advent

Once again, we prepare to conclude the Liturgical Year through the celebration of the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, or the Feast of Christ the King this Sunday. This solemn celebration reminds us that earthly powers are temporary, but Christ’s reign is eternal and His kingdom endures forever. The feast began in the 1920s during a time of rising secularism. 

For something different in my blog, I have invited the five Deans of the Diocese to offer reflections for the upcoming Sundays, beginning with Christ the King and continuing through the four Sundays of Advent. Our Diocese is divided into five territorial districts or deaneries and from each I appoint a priest to assist me in some aspects of administration and the coordination of pastoral activity in that area. This priest is called the Dean or, sometimes more formally, the Vicar Forane.

Here is the first reflection by Father Riley Williams, Fall River Dean:

Imagine. When I say that word, I’m sure that the John Lennon song is what comes to mind for a lot of us.  Of course, it begins with “Imagine there’s no heaven/ It’s easy if you try,” as it presents a vision of a better world.

But I ask you to consider this: is there anything more powerful than authentic faith in Jesus Christ that can bring us together: that can heal divisions: that can bring to fulfillment the aspirations of which John Lennon sang?

Imagine is what today’s feast of Christ the King asks us to do: to imagine what the Kingdom of Christ would look like here on earth; and at the same time to do more than imagine: it calls us to realize that this Kingdom is not simply something to look for at the end of time, but a reality that we are called to help make more present here and now.  Ever since Jesus sent out His disciples before He ascended into Heaven, this is what Christians have done.

In this month of November, we’ve remembered the saints and the rich history of faith in action that they offer us, in particular, their realization that they were called to be a part of making the Kingdom of God a reality here in this world.  Today’s feast reminds us that we have received this calling as well, sharing with others the reconciliation that Christ has won for us, and letting the power of His invisible grace be made visible in and through us.

Imagine– it’s easy if you try – what part you and I can do in making Christ’s Kingdom more of a reality on earth.

Please join us during this sacred season of anticipation and hope as we reflect together on the coming of Christ.

Sincerely,
+Bishop da Cunha