The powerful teaching of the Church on racism is clear: racism and every form of discrimination based on sex, race, color, social conditions, language, or religion must be curbed and eradicated as incompatible with God’s design. We are called to work to protect the dignity of all members of one human family by confronting racism in all its forms and by welcoming and celebrating the diversity of the many faces of the children of God in our communities. Building unity in diversity is an essential part of our mission of discipleship.            
           
“Open Wide Our Hearts” and the accompanying study guide are for everyone. Praying through, reflecting upon, and acting upon the message of the pastoral letter is hard work, but it is work from which all will benefit. Each of us should adopt the words of Pope Francis as our own: let no one ‘think this invitation is not meant for him or her.’ We are encouraged to go through a genuine conversion of heart and to actively participate in reforming those institutions and structures that still perpetuate racial inequality and harm our sisters and brothers.

Walk Humbly with God

In the month of February we journey through the last section of the pastoral letter and the last section of the accompanying study guide. The bishops ask us to “walk humbly with God” and to press forward without fear in rebuilding our relationships, healing our communities and working to shape our policies and institutions toward the good of all. 

We are asked to commit to the following actions, to press forward without fear, and take direct and deliberate steps for change.

Acknowledge Sin
Educate Ourselves
Be Open to Encounter
Resolve to Work for Justice
Work for Conversion of All and a Commitment to Life