August 1, 2022
There have been a number of shootings this past month with no report of actual deaths. In two of the most serious shootings, neither victim was identified. One man, 28 years old, was listed in critical condition and another injured in an altercation in which the intended target defended himself. In a separate shooting, the condition of a 30-year-old man was not given. The person who shot him was charged with "felonious assault" rather than homicide. Regardless of the circumstances, let us pray for all victims of violence and those affected by it. God of life, source of hope the violence within our world, our communities, our families, indeed our very selves is destroying Your creation. In union with the Precious Blood of Jesus, give us the strength to break the cycle of violence, to hear the cry of the blood and make sacred again Your earth stained by blood. Amen. AN UPDATE: The question has been raised as to when the on-site vigils will restart. At this time we are considering changes to the format. Know that any decisions made will be based on the values of prayer, presence and witness. ADDENDUM: I sincerely apologize for having missed 2 homicides early in July. It is my hope that you will hold both of these young men and their families in your prayers. Both died of gunshot wounds. To lose their lives at such young ages is especially difficult for family and friends. July 6 — Justin Brown, 21, 1700 block of W. Riverview Avenue July 9 — Devin Taione Bennett, 18, 1900 block of Gant Dr. — Thank you for remembering them, Sister Jeanette Buehler.