From the Mountains, to the Cape and to the World: A Call to Faith and Peace

Catching Up with Our Seminarians (and those in Discernment) During the Summer Break

This summer provided some opportunities for our seminarians to enjoy some time off and gather with priests of the Diocese. One of those opportunities came when young men from across the Diocese discerning a vocational call joined Fr. Jack Schrader and Fr. John Garabedian of our Vocations Office, and our seminarians for the 2026 Frassati Hike. Inspired by Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati’s love of the outdoors and his deep faith, a Frassati Hike combines hiking, fellowship, prayer, and reflection on God’s call in our lives. The group traveled to Stockbridge, Mass., in the Berkshires for the hike and also visited the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy, where they attended Mass. It was an opportunity for them to be together, strengthen friendships, and take some time amid the beauty of God’s creation to reflect on His plan for their lives. 

It was wonderful for me to spend time with our seminarians on Cape Cod last week at the conclusion of their convocation. I celebrated Mass for them, and then we enjoyed some outdoor activities. Each summer, I schedule a day like this with our seminarians so that we can have some relaxed time together and get to know each other better.  

Finally, our seminarians joined with our priests of the Diocese and me last Tuesday for our celebration of the Feast of St. John Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests. As I shared last week, we collectively renewed our consecration to St. John Vianney during Evening Prayer and then enjoyed a cookout. (See the photo in the upper left-hand corner.)

Please keep these men in your prayers!

Let there be Peace on Earth

In a file photo, Hanan Adam Hassan, a displaced Sudanese mother of five, prepares food at a camp shelter amid the ongoing conflict between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese army, in Tawila, North Darfur, Sudan, July 30, 2025. (OSV News photo/Mohamed Jamal, Reuters)

Following the Angelus this past Sunday, Pope Leo XIV expressed concern for those suffering amid conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, and Russia, calling for humanitarian assistance, respect for civilians, and a renewed commitment to ceasefires, dialogue, and peace. He also encouraged young people to look to the lives of the saints as examples of faith, courage, and devotion to Christ.

With war impacting so many throughout the world, now more than ever, we need people of good faith (and good will!) to answer these calls for peace. Peace begins with hearts transformed by compassion, mercy, and a commitment to the dignity of every human person. Each of us has a role to play in building a more peaceful world. We can do so through prayer and kindness. May we continue to pray for all those affected by conflict and for the courage to be instruments of Christ’s peace in our homes, communities, and throughout the world.

Celebrating the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Cesare Nebbia, The Assumption with the Apostles 1350-90, Mosaic, Orvieto Cathedral, Italy

On Saturday, August 15, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, honoring that Mary, at the end of her earthly life, was taken body and soul into the glory of Heaven. This beautiful feast reminds us of God’s promise of eternal life and the hope that awaits all who faithfully follow Christ. As the Mother of Jesus and our spiritual mother, Mary continues to lead us closer to her Son through her example of humility, trust, and unwavering faith. Remember that our Diocese has as our Patron Saint Mary of the Assumption. Therefore, August 15, the Feast of the Assumption, is also the Feast Day of our Diocese. Happy Feast Day to all of you, my dear brothers and sisters!

Sincerely,

+Bishop da Cunha