Bishop Lennon invites all to noon Mass at Cathedral on the 4th of July to close 'Fortnight for Freedom" - Parishes across the country to ring bells at noon on Independence Day
WASHINGTON - Today (June 28, 2012) the United States Supreme Court issued a decision upholding as a tax provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that requires individuals to purchase a health plan - the so-called "individual mandate."
(United States Conference of Catholic Bishops headquarters building in Washington D.C.)
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.
Homily from the Opening Mass for the Fortnight4Freedom
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 opened 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.
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
Brunswick
Dr. Anthony Iezzi will speak at St. Ambrose Parish, 929 Pearl Road on Sunday, July 1 at 1:15 p.m. His talk will address the Federal Health Insurance Mandates and the Free Exercise Clause of the Constitution. His talk will take place in the parish church.