Fourth of July Message

Brothers and Sisters,

This July 4th marks the 247th celebration of our country’s independence. These powerful words from the Declaration of Independence ring true today just as they did in 1776, “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” As I reflect on this statement, I think of the words found in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “the right to the exercise of freedom is an inalienable requirement of the dignity of man (CCC1747).” It is tragic that these rights enshrined in the Declaration of Independence and proclaimed in the Catechism are often ignored, particularly the rights of the most vulnerable – the unborn. As citizens of this great nation, these rights which we enjoy should always be protected and respected, especially the right to life and liberty.

As we once again celebrate our independence, may we take time to thank God for the blessing to live in this country. We pray that true freedoms and love, which begin within our families, will extend to our communities, nation and the world.

God bless America!

Faithfully yours,
Bishop Joe S. Vásquez