Bishop Lennon to open "Fortnight for Freedom" with celebration of Mass at St. John's Cathedral on Thursday, June 21, 5:10 p.m.
On April 12, the Ad Hoc Committee on Religious Liberty of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) issued a document , "Our First, Most Cherished Liberty," outlining the bishops' concerns over threats to religious freedom, both at home and abroad. The bishops called for a "Fortnight for Freedom," a 14-day period of prayer, education and action in support of religious freedom, from June 21- July 4.
Bishops in their own diocese are encouraged to arrange special events to highlight the importance of defending religious freedom. Catholic institutions are encouraged to do the same, especially in cooperation with other Christians, Jews, people of other faiths and all who wish to defend our most cherished freedom.
In the Diocese of Cleveland
Bishop Lennon will open the "Fortnight for Freedom" on Thursday, June 21, the vigil of the Feasts for politically martyred saints John Fisher and Thomas More, by celebrating the 5:10 p.m. Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in downtown Cleveland. All are invited to participate in this Mass in support of Religious Liberty.
Bishop Lennon is encouraging all parishes throughout the eight-county Diocese of Cleveland to hold a parish "Fortnight for Freedom" candle light prayer service vigil. Bishop Lennon has provided the parishes with a suggested prayer service format including prayers and hymns for the occasion. A list of recommended intercessions for weekend Masses and suggested parish bulletin announcements has also been provided.
Bishop Lennon will conclude the "Fortnight for Freedom" on Wednesday, July 4, Independence Day, by celebrating the noon Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. Again all are invited to participate in this Mass in support of Religious Liberty.
Bells for Freedom - On Wednesday, July 4 at noon, Catholic parishes throughout the Diocese of Cleveland and throughout the U.S. are being asked to ring their parish bells.
Visit the Diocese of Cleveland's "Fortnight for Freedom" web page>
"Fortnight for Freedom" chance for the faithful to show their concerns with HHS>
Other events in or near the Diocese of Cleveland
Canton
Reverend Nicholas Mancini will celebrate a Mass at St. Raphael Center on Wednesday, June 20 at 6 p.m. All are welcome. A presentation on religious liberty will follow Mass. This event is in conjunction with Living Bread Radio AM1060 / 89.5FM.
Bishop George Murray, S.J. will speak at a Rally for Religious Freedom. The rally will take place at the Stark County Courthouse on Tuesday, June 26 at noon. For more information, contact Gary Cerrone at (330) 605-5391.
Youngstown
Bishop George Murry, S.J., will celebrate a Mass at St. Columba Cathedral on Thursday, June 21 at 12:10 p.m. All are welcome. Lunch and a presentation by Catholic Charities/Office of Respect Life will follow Mass.
Ravenna
A Rally for Religious Freedom will take place at the Portage County Courthouse on Friday, June 22 at noon. For further information, contact Karen Barrett at kbarrett&@sbcglobal.net
University Heights
Bruce Khula, Ph.D., J.D., and Sister Kathleen Ryan, S.N.D. and Diocesan Social Action Director, will be giving a presentation on religious liberty and the HHS mandate at the Gesu Parish Family Center, 2450 Miramar Boulevard (across the street from John Carroll University) on Sunday, June 24 at 7:00 p.m. The Family Center is located at the rear of the Gesu School building. All are welcome.