A Time for Peace, Prayer, and Action in Our Diocese

Let Peace Begin With Us: Join the Catholic Appeal

Peace begins with each of us. For this year’s Catholic Appeal, I invite you to reflect on your role as a peacemaker, echoing the call to “let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.” Through your generosity, we are able to bring that peace to life across our Diocese, supporting ministries that serve communities from New Bedford to South Yarmouth, from Attleboro to Dartmouth, and every city and town in between.

Now in its 85th year, the Catholic Appeal remains a vital source of support for programs that care for those in need, strengthen families, and build the future of our Church. From food pantries and emergency assistance to faith formation and outreach to the sick and elderly, these efforts are made possible through the collective commitment of so many who answer the call to give. As Jesus reminds us, “Blessed are the peacemakers,” and through our shared prayer, generosity, and service, we can extend Christ’s love and healing presence throughout our communities.

Please consider your support of this transformative work.

Blue Pinwheels and the Pledge of a Safer Future

As I noted in a recent blog post, April is Child Abuse Prevention Month and on Tuesday, we observed this important time in our Diocese with a Mass in St. Mary’s Cathedral and an outdoor prayer service that followed on Cathedral grounds.

In my words of reflection, I shared that abuse prevention is not a single program or requirement. It is a change in culture and mentality. It is the daily commitment of each of us to notice, to speak up, to intervene, and to ensure that no form of harm is ever tolerated. 

As Bishop of this Diocese, I affirm our collective duty to protect every child and every vulnerable adult. I express my deep gratitude to our Safe Environment team in the Diocese, to our educators, clergy, staff, volunteers, parents, and to all who dedicate themselves to protecting God’s people. This vigilance is an act of love. This work is a concrete example of the Gospel Jesus left us.

I was pleased that some students from two of our Catholic schools took part in the observance. The Our Lady of Lourdes School Schola from Taunton provided wonderful music. Students from Bishop Stang High School offered the prayers of the faithful during the outdoor service and at the conclusion of each, planted a blue pinwheel by the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Blue pinwheels are now widely recognized as the national symbol of child abuse prevention, recognizing the carefree and joyful childhood that every child should experience. In my introduction, I explained that as we plant these pinwheels, we make a pledge to stand with survivors, to safeguard the protection and dignity of every person, to hold ourselves accountable, and to ensure that the future is safer than the past.

In the Month of Mary, We Turn to Our Mother in Faith

May is traditionally dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, a time when we turn to her as our model of faith, humility, and trust in God. Throughout this month, the faithful are invited to honor Our Lady in simple yet meaningful ways. This includes praying the Rosary, placing flowers before her image in a May crowning at a local parish, or spending quiet moments in reflection on her “yes” to God’s will. In our homes and parishes, these practices help deepen our devotion and remind us of Mary’s constant presence as a mother who intercedes for us. As we celebrate the Month of Mary, may we follow her example and grow closer to her Son through prayer, gratitude, and a renewed spirit of faith. 

Join me in Walking for Life

A brief reminder that you are invited to join the Third Annual Diocesan Walk for Life on Friday, May 1, 2026, at the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette in Attleboro. This free, prayer-filled day begins at 8:30 a.m. and includes the Rosary, Mass, a prayer walk, and time for Adoration and Confessions. Please bring a bagged lunch and, if possible, register in advance.

Sincerely,

+Bishop da Cunha