July update on issues that affect our community and nation.

It is with joyful hearts that we offer this statement regarding the Supreme Court’s ruling to uphold the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. The Catholic Church welcomes the Supreme Court’s ruling as it supports our efforts to promote and protect the life and dignity of all people regardless of status. . . .

"How wonderful it would be if, during the coming year, each of us could grow in our desire and ability to be in prayerful conversation with Christ, present in the Blessed Sacrament! . . . The Lord longs to hear from us, to know, in our own words, what is happening in our lives: our hopes, fears, joys, concerns, questions. . . ."

We, the bishops of Washington state, wish to notify you of our strong support and encouragement for gathering signatures for Initiative 1698 (I-1698). I-1698 is a pro-life initiative requiring that an ultrasound be performed prior to an abortion in Washington state. The initiative outlaws the act of an abortion if a fetal heartbeat is detected . . . .