Texas Catholic Voice
In this issue of the Texas Catholic Voice:
- Executive Director Jennifer Carr Allmon discusses initiatives to combat human trafficking...
- Education Department thanks Sr. Kevina Keating for her service...
A Message from Jennifer Allmon, Executive Director
While it is only the third week of Advent, this is our last TCV for the year. I pray that this Advent and upcoming Christmas season will provide you with time for family and reflection on the coming of our Lord.
Last week Bishop Vasquez, Father James Misko, and I attended a listening session with Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott and faith leaders from across the state to discuss strategies to end child exploitation and sex trafficking in Texas. The listening session coincided with the launch of the Governor's Response Against Child Exploitation (GRACE) Initiative, a collaborative effort between the Office of the Governor and the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to empower and mobilize communities of faith in the fight against child sex trafficking. Videos and resources can be found on the governor's website. The reality that vulnerable children are targeted and exploited by sex traffickers is sobering and the Gospel compels us to act. Inspired by the leaders involved in the GRACE initiative, we are encouraging support of a social media campaign entitled #CanYouSeeMe, especially during the weekend of January 11-12. That weekend we encourage parishes to add a petition during the prayers of the faithful and help increase awareness of this modern form of slavery by using the social media tools found here.
Education Department Update
The TCCB Education Department would like to extend its sincerest appreciation to Sr. Kevina Keating who recently concluded a three year term serving as a commissioner for the TCCB Accreditation Commission. Her vast experience and love for Catholic education has helped continue the mission of Texas Catholic schools.
Prayer for the Legislature
During the interim session, please pray for all our public servants and elected officials, including our Governor, Lt. Governor, House Speaker, lawmakers, and their staff, that the Lord may grant them rest and refreshment from their work, bless their return home to their districts to be with their families and constituents, and give them grace and guidance in the interim.
Upcoming Texas Executions
Please join our bishops in praying for those scheduled for execution, for the victims of violent crimes and for all affected, including their families and communities. As the bishops of Texas wrote in their pastoral letter, "May God give us the grace to witness to the dignity of human life. May the Lord console the suffering, protect our community, and grant conversion to those responsible for the inflicting of death and violence upon others."
The Pope's January Intention
Promotion of World Peace
We pray that Christians, followers of other religions, and all people of goodwill may promote peace and justice in the world.
The Texas Catholic Voice is a publication of the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops. For more information, write news@txcatholic.org or call 512-339-9882.