Trust, Mercy, and Community in a Time of Challenge

Maligning our Shepherd’s Prayers for Peace

On Sunday night, the president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a brief and powerful response to a social media post by President Trump regarding Pope Leo XIV, and I echo his words. It is indeed “disheartening” for the president of our country to speak of the Holy Father in such a dismissive manner.

Pope Leo is the spiritual leader of more than one billion Catholics around the world, entrusted with bringing the message of the Gospel to the moral dimensions of critical global affairs. He speaks not as a political leader, but as a pastor—offering a spiritual and moral perspective on matters with potentially grave consequences. His consistent call for peace, diplomacy, and humanitarian concern in the face of conflict is not only appropriate but deeply needed. As the Holy Father himself said: “I have no fear… of speaking out loudly of the message of the Gospel, which is what I believe I am here to do…”

Divine Mercy and the Gift of a New Beginning

On Sunday, I was pleased to go to Westport to celebrate Mass for the Divine Mercy Parish there. The Mass and reception that followed were part of the community’s two-day First Annual Patron Feast. Divine Mercy Parish was formed last June by joining the three existing Westport parishes into one, unified community. I shared with them how happy and proud I am that parishioners from the former parishes have come together in a relatively short time and created such a strong sense of belonging. Special thanks go to Father Dariusz Kalinowski and the Parish Unification Team for their efforts and commitment to working to bring the communities together.

We gathered last weekend as the entire Church observed the Feast of the Divine Mercy, a relatively recent addition to our liturgical calendar. Always celebrated on the second Sunday of Easter, the Feast was instituted by then Pope now St. John Paul II, and it followed the revelations of Saint Faustina Kowalska, who experienced visions of Jesus and recorded their conversations.

St. Faustina’s suffering and her acceptance of it as “the daily food of my soul,” is a prominent focus of her writing. I think that suffering, when united with faith, can work to transform the soul and reveal the depth of our true friendship with God. The message of St. Faustina that accompanies the Divine Mercy image is one we must turn to for strength during suffering: “Jesus I trust in you.”

In the Sunday’s Gospel from St. John, we heard the story of the “doubting” Thomas, who was absent when Jesus first appeared to the disciples but was given another opportunity to believe. This moment speaks to the heart of Divine Mercy. We all need a second chance. Divine Mercy is all about giving us another chance.

I asked parishioners at the Mass to consider those who may be missing such opportunities in their faith lives. As I pointed out, the Church is not simply a building, but a community gathered in prayer. No one is meant to live in isolation; community gives purpose and meaning to life. I think that is why we’re seeing many young people coming back to the Church. They are searching for a place of community where they are not alone.

Our Mass on Sunday was celebrated in St. George’s Church, one of three worship sites the parish uses. I have a special memory associated with it. It was the first parish church I visited after my installation as Bishop here to celebrate a special anniversary Mass.

Safeguarding Children Through Vigilance and Prayer

April is recognized as National Child Abuse Prevention Month and Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time to reflect on our shared responsibility to protect the young people in our care. We take this responsibility seriously. For example, anyone who ministers, works or volunteers in the Diocese is required to undergo a background check, participate in training, and follow a clear code of conduct to ensure safe, supportive environments. 

I invite you to join me, along with Catholic school students from across the Diocese, for the 12 noon Mass at the Cathedral on Tuesday, April 28. Following the Mass, we will plant pinwheels, symbols of the innocence of childhood, and pray for the protection and healing of all children and for the continued prevention of abuse. Thank you for the role each of you plays in helping to keep our communities safe.

An ‘Ace’ for Community and Generosity at Bishop Stang

Last week, I had the privilege of joining the Bishop Stang High School community for the ribbon-cutting and blessing of its new tennis courts. It was a joyful celebration made possible through the generosity of the Hutchens Family Foundation and a wonderful moment to gather with students, families, and supporters.

I wish you all a happy and blessed week.

+Bishop da Cunha