Gun Violence Awareness Day

When: June 6th

In 2022, the USCCB wrote a letter to Congress stating: “We urge all members of Congress to reflect on the compassion all of you undoubtedly feel in light of these tragic events and be moved to action because of it. There is something deeply wrong with a culture where these acts of violence are increasingly common...Among the many steps toward addressing this endemic of violence is the passage of reasonable gun control measures.”* During National Gun Violence Awareness Month, we stand with the bishops in pro-life solidarity for an end to violence and for common sense reforms.

Prayer: Similar to “Lectio Divina,” which is a method of praying with Scriptures, Visio Divina is a method of praying with images, often icons. Try this method using this image of the Taking of Christ by Douffet.

Use this guide: Look at the image and let your eyes stay with the very first thing that you see. Keep your attention on that one part of the image that first catches your eye. Breathe deeply and let yourself gaze at that part of the image for a minute or so.

Now, let your eyes gaze at the whole image. Take your time and look at every part of the photograph. Reflect on the image for a minute or so.

Consider the following questions:

What emotions does this image evoke in you?

What does the image stir up in you?

Does this image lead you into an attitude of prayer? If so, let these prayers take form in you. Write them down if you desire.

Now, offer your prayers to God in a final time of silence.

Action: Use our advocacy guides at www.lifeandjusticekcsj.org/advocacy.

Almsgiving: The Missouri Catholic Conference works through the year to advocate for public policy which upholds the dignity and sanctity of human life, including addressing gun violence and safety. You can learn more about their advocacy and support them at mocatholic.org.



*https://www.usccb.org/resources/letter-congress-gun-violence-june-3-2022

Father's Day Resources

When: June 15th

Father's Day is a wonderful times to be reminded of the beautiful gifts of life and fatherhood. For a parish action guide including bulletin announcements, intercessions, homily helps, sample activities, and more, please visit:

Father's Day Action Guide (English)

Guía de acción: Día de las Padres (Español)

Juneteenth

When: June 19th

The observance of Juneteenth has spread beyond its localized recognition in Texas and became a federal holiday in 2021.

Slavery was abolished in 1863. Due to the state of communication, travel, and state laws at the time, that freedom did not reach portions of the U.S. till later dates. Finally on June 19, 1865, slaves were emancipated in Texas.

Prayer: Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom for those who had been enslaved. Let us join in a prayer of thanksgiving with Psalms of Thanksgiving, such as Psalm 136.

Action: Encourage the celebration of Juneteenth in your community and parish! Research local celebrations and how you can participate.

Almsgiving: St. Monica’s Catholic Church is the first Catholic Church founded for African Americans in Kansas City, founded in 1910. You can read a full detailed story at stmonicakc.org/about-us. St. Monica’s continues to provide a rich liturgy and moving Gospel choir, as well as community outreach. Support the Forward in Faith debt reduction campaign at stmonicakc.org/giving-1.

54th Annual National Right to Life Conference

When: June 20th-21st

Where: Overland Park, KS

The National Right to Life Conference is a two-day event of learning, inspiration, and fellowship. Whether you are a seasoned activist, a new volunteer, a student passionate about life, or simply want to learn how to make a difference, this conference is for you. The conference will feature more than 12 breakout sessions and six general sessions. The conference takes place at Marriott Kansas City Overland Park, 10800 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park, KS 66210. Register to attend at https://nrlconvention.com. 

Life & Justice Campaign 2nd Collection

When: August 16th-17th

The Life & Justice Campaign Second Collection will take place over the weekend of August 16-17, 2025. A great way to learn more about the Life and Justice Campaign is to invite one of our Life and Justice Grant recipients to speak at a Sunday Mass in August and/or exhibit about their organization and how they serve the community and people in the margins. Contact Debbie Sheppard at 816.714.2367, sheppard@diocesekcsj.org to schedule one of these speakers at your parish.