St. Michael's Cathedral, Black Catholic Apostolate Ministry
A Prayer Service for Racial Healing was held on June 12, 2020. This was held at St. Michael’s Cathedral located in the Diocese of Springfield, Massachusetts. This particular service was requested by Bishop Mitchell T. Rozanski who was the Presider at this event. The program was planned under the guidance of Fr. Warren Savage, Sr. Melinda Pellerin, SSJ, and Marion Johnson, Administrative Director of Black Catholic Apostolate.
About 140 persons were in attendance from all parts of Western Mass. The diversity of those who attended reflected the make-up of the people in terms of age, ethnicity and social backgrounds. In the weeks since this service was held, many other towns have held similar demonstration services. In both rural and urban areas people are coming together voicing their concerns in regard to the current social climate and injustices taking place.
Many ethnic groups and the White community have joined together and taken a stand. Many of these groups gather together every weekend near highways so that passer-byers and travelers can understand their belief and passion.
Bishop Rozanski gave a homily based on the life of one of the martyrs of the Civil Rights movement, Medgar Evers. He was killed in his driveway during the movement of the 70’s. There were many prayers and words of wisdom from various Pastoral Letters that have been written by our own Conference of Bishops, addressing this issue. They provide healing words and prayers that we are encouraged to say as we continue to heal and work toward democracy. We can use these wonderful prayers, readings and psalms from the Bible and share them with others throughout these times.
Submitted by,
Marion Johnson
Administrative Director
Black Catholic Apostolate
