Keep the victims and their families, of the Easter Sunday terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka, close to our hearts in prayer; please see below statement and invitation from Bishop Conlon.

On Easter Sunday, many of us woke to the news of another horrific tragedy and senseless violence in Sri Lanka. Several hundred were killed in a coordinated series of bombings at Catholic Church services and nearby hotels. It appears to be a terrorist act aimed at the minority Christian population in the island nation.

Events like these and the mosque shootings in Christchurch, New Zealand last month, and countless others are a terrible reminder of the persecution faced by many around the world merely for practicing their faith. We stand united with people of all faiths and nations against all acts of violence – especially those motivated by political, racial or religious intolerance.

On Sunday, May 5, 2019 at 11:00am at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus in Joliet, IL, I will be celebrating Mass in remembrance of the victims of this attack, and for healing for their families and communities. I invite people of the Diocese of Joliet to join me at this Mass.

May God’s grace bring comfort to the survivors and the families of victims of this attack, and renew in us all a deeper respect for the human dignity of all around the world.

Most Reverend R. Daniel Conlon
Bishop of Joliet