In June 2019 we began a journey by kicking off the anti -racism initiative based on the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops Pastoral Letter against Racism called, Open Wide Our Hearts. The letter is a powerful invitation for all the people of God to “face courageously the vice of racism.”
Now in 2022 the diocese the continues the work of the ad-hoc committee with the formulation of the diocesan Intercultural Committee on Access, Integration and Mission. The committee includes a diverse group of laity, diocesan staff and clergy, working together to address issues, concerns and practices in areas such as faith formation, hiring practices, education, communication as they pertain to the inclusion and dignity of all God’s people. Deacon Casey Walker has been elected chairperson of the committee.
Pastoral Letter from Bishop Jaime Soto (May 3, 2021)
Following the publication of Open Wide Our Hearts, the pastoral letter on racism approved in 2018 by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Bishop Jaime Soto convened an anti-racism working group to assist him with applying the letter to the pastoral work in the Diocese of Sacramento. This letter is in response to the diligent and devout work of this group:
Resource for Worship
- The "Lead Me, Guide Me" Hymnal is "GIA's expanded and enhanced Catholic hymnal for the African American church."
- The USCCB has a guide to have a Holy Hour Against Racism.
- Going Home Like a Shooting Star: Thea Bowman’s Journey to Sainthood : https://youtu.be/W9oOa2iOwck
Open Wide Our Hearts, USCCB
In November 2018, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops approved a new pastoral letter against racism, Open Wide Our Hearts: The Enduring Call to Love. In the letter, the bishops invite all people of faith to conversion. We are called to open our minds and hearts to Christ’s love for all people and to the experiences of those who have been harmed by the evil of racism.
- Open Wide Our Hearts: Pastoral Letter | Study Guide
- Prayer to Overcome Racism: Text | Video
In response to "Open Wide Our Hearts", the diocesan Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism was formed in April 2019.
News
Diocese of Sacramento Response to George Floyd's Death
- Bishop Soto Calls for Prayer in Wake of George Floyd Death and Civil Unrest
- Video: California bishops hold a “virtual” Stations of the Cross to draw attention to the sin of racism
- To download Intercessory Prayers, click here
USCCB (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops)
- Statement of U.S. Bishop Chairmen on Verdict in Trial of Derek Chauvin
- Looking to help, here are action steps to eradicate racism from the USCCB