Do You Know Someone Being Called by Name?

Image with a dark blue background and headshot of a priest with the words Diocese of Fall River and Called by Name appearing in the graphic to promote vocations to the priesthood in this Massachusetts Diocese.

I am encouraged that our Diocesan Vocation office is launching an innovative initiative to find and welcome individuals who are discerning a call to the priesthood. The Called by Name campaign will take place on Sat., Nov. 9, and Sun., Nov. 10, to promote vocations to the priesthood and ensure our Diocese will have enough shepherds to guide the faithful in the future. The voice of God may speak through the encouragement of others. This campaign offers a thoughtful way for parishioners to prayerfully nominate individuals who embody faith, leadership, and a spirit of service. Called by Name encourages those discerning a vocation to open their hearts to answer a calling from God. I wrote a letter to parishioners on the campaign to be shared at Masses this weekend. I hope everyone will do their part to encourage young men in our Diocese to explore the exciting and rewarding plan that God has in store for them. Together, we can promote vocations to the priesthood and become fishers of men.

Election Day 2024: Are You a Faithful Citizen?

On Tues., Nov. 5, voters will decide elections from the White House to state houses to city and town halls. While neither of the two leading presidential candidates are in sync with Church teachings, each of us has a responsibility to vote. In Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, the Bishops urge the faithful to educate themselves on how the candidates approach four key principles: the Dignity of the Human Person, the Common Good, Solidarity, and Subsidiarity. (Note that we do not endorse candidates.) Which candidate’s platform closest aligns with your values and Church teachings? Two questions to consider before voting. As Election Day approaches, I will pray this prayer for the guidance of the Holy Spirit upon each of us and as we examine our consciences and cast our votes. I will also pray for a peaceful election outcome.

Don’t forget about this year’s ballot questions. You may recall that I and some of my brother Bishops in Massachusetts shared our opposition to question number 4, which would legalize growing, possessing, and using certain psychedelic drugs. Why? Read on to learn about the devastating impact of drug use and mental illness and those who lost their struggle. 

Remembering Those Lost to Mental Illness and Overdoses

Last Saturday, I celebrated a Mass to pray for those who lost a loved one to suicide, substance abuse, or mental health struggles and for those facing mental health challenges. From a Book of Remembrance offered at the Mass, we read aloud the names of those who passed under these circumstances in the Prayer of the Faithful during the Mass. (You can see the book in the photo to the right before the ambo.) The Church alone cannot address all of these issues, but the Mental Health Ministry of Fall River Catholic Charities and parish volunteers throughout the Diocese provide critical spiritual and practical support to those facing mental health challenges. 

Bishop de Cunha speaking from the ambo with A Book of Remembrance in front of the ambo where the names of those who passed under the circumstances of mental health illness and overdose were read aloud.

After the Mass, I met an inspiring group of women who formed a support group. Each lost a loved one to suicide, mental illness, or an overdose. I encouraged them to continue supporting one another and reminded them that when they help others, they are also helping themselves.

All Saints Day and All Souls’ Day Reminder

Eight tea-light candles with flickering flames lit in memory of the deceased.

This week, we pause to honor and remember the communion of saints and the souls of the faithful. The Solemnity of All Saints is Fri., Nov. 1, and All Souls’ Day,  Sat., Nov. 2. Please check your parish bulletin or website for Mass times to gather in prayer to remember the sacrifices of the Saints who draw us closer to our faith and to remember our loved ones who have gone before us. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.

Yours in Christ,
Bishop da Cunha

The Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D.
The Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D.
The Bishop of Fall River