WASHINGTON – Following the verdict in the trial of former police officer Derek Chauvin in Minneapolis, Minnesota today, Bishop Shelton J. Fabre of Houma-Thibodaux, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism, and Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development issued a statement.

The bishops’ full statement follows:

“Today, a jury found Derek Chauvin guilty of the murder of George Floyd. As we receive this result, we recall that God is the source of all justice, love, and mercy. The death of George Floyd highlighted and amplified the deep need to see the sacredness in all people, but especially those who have been historically oppressed. Whatever the stage of human life, it not only matters, it is sacred.

In his New Year’s letter to priests of the diocese, Bishop Jaime Soto again affirmed his commitment to caring for the victims of clergy sexual abuse and to atoning for the sins of the past. This atoning, Bishop Soto said, is a lifetime commitment, and is central to our responsibility as Catholics.

“I want to assure each of you personally that my focus remains steadfastly on the well-being of the victims of sexual abuse and the safety of all God’s people who put their trust in our parishes, schools and programs,” Bishop Soto said.

The following is a summary of how our diocese puts that responsibility into action.

Beginning Friday, March 19, the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, everyone is invited to share in a special devotion to Saint Joseph every Friday at 9:00am on the diocesan Facebook, YouTube, and website.

Over seven Fridays*, Bishop Soto and deacons throughout the diocese will provide opportunities to pray and reflect on the Seven Sorrows and Seven Joys of Saint Joseph. The devotional series will continue through the Feast of Saint Joseph the Worker on Saturday, May 1 with the final Friday being May 7.

*Please note: The series will pause on Good Friday.