Please pray with us during this crucial time

As part of our mission as Sisters of Charity of New York, we have always tried to live our promise to respond to the signs of our times. Presently, our nation is in a fragile time in which the ethical and moral strength of the country is at risk.

There has been an ongoing preponderance of rhetoric and behavior during this election season that is serving only to debase the American and human fundamental values of truth and integrity. This is being done through distortion of fact and through castigation of various individuals and communities struggling to live dignified lives in this country.

Since our founding in 1817 we have valued life from its inception through to death serving those in need in education, within health care, social service work, childcare etc.

Never in our experience has a presidential race been laced with such disrespect, mockery, vulgarity, misogyny, and complete disregard for the dignity and worth of individuals because of their race, ethnicity, beliefs, gender and gender expression.

Equally disturbing because it hits closer to home is the stance of many of our church leaders. Not only do they stand by silently as the people they serve are mocked and denigrated, some seem to endorse this vulgar and non-civil behavior with a smile.

Our charism calls us to care for the poor and vulnerable, to uphold the rights and worth of all individuals, regardless of race, creed, or background. We cannot, in good conscience, remain silent in the face of the ongoing erosion of these principles. 

We urge everyone to join us in prayer for our nation at this critical time. Let us pray for leaders who will act with integrity, who will promote justice and peace, and who will protect the dignity of all. Let us pray for courage to stand against any form of hatred or injustice, especially when it comes from those entrusted with leadership. And let us pray that our Church and its leaders will reflect the compassion of Christ, showing a clear commitment to human dignity and unity in their witness. 

As Pope Francis reminds us in his recent encyclical Dilexit Nos, “Every human life, unique and unrepeatable, has inherent worth, and no one has the right to deny it or treat it with contempt.” May these words inspire us to work toward a society where respect, understanding, and love prevail. 

Please join us in our prayers for understanding and conversion, for civility and respect for diversity. May God’s healing touch restore our nation and guide us all toward unity and peace. 

The Leadership Team of the Sisters of Charity of New York

Sr. Donna Dodge, Sr. Margaret O’Brien, Sr. Mary Mc Cormick,

Sr. Mary Ann Daly, Sr. Sheila Brosnan, Sr. Margaret Egan

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Contact:
James Rowe
Sisters of Charity of New York
646-425-9107
Jrowe@scny.org

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of RNS or Religion News Foundation.