News - January 2022

As I reflect on the last year, I find myself incredibly grateful for the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit has guided us through challenging times and presents us with the wonderful opportunity to be still, to listen, and to renew our relationship with Jesus and our dedication to his mission. It is through our Risen Savior that we have the strength, the patience, the love and the wisdom to move forward as one Body of Christ. . . .

Pope Francis’ encyclical letter Laudato Si’ was released in June 2015. Five years later, in 2020, Pope Francis invited all Catholics and people of good will to celebrate its fifth anniversary by protecting families and future generations through action to care for our common home. Here are themes that Pope Francis highlighted in Laudato Si’ which require our urgent response today. . . .

Happy New Year, and welcome to the 2022 state legislative session! The session began on January 10 and will run for 60 days. There will be opportunities for you to sign in pro/con for legislation and to contact your legislators at critical moments as bills are being considered. Reading this Catholic Advocacy Bulletin is the best way to be informed about how to advocate alongside the Washington State Catholic Conference (WSCC). The bulletin will be published every Friday during the session. Thank you for joining the Washington bishops in advocating for the common good.

Pope Francis formally launched the two-year global consultation process leading to the 2023 synod on synodality on Sunday with a call to “look others in the eye and listen to what they have to say.” . . .