Bishops Give Guidance to G8

Memorial of St. Norbert
Happy Belated Birthday to the Troglodytrix

In what the USCCB Office of Media Relations calls an "unprecedented action," bold action has been requested of seven of the Group of Eight (G8) countries during this week's summit in Heiligendamm, Germany by the presidents of the corresponding seven Catholic bishops conferences. (Curiously, Italy is not included.) Their motivation? A religious and moral commitment to promote human life, human dignity, and care for God's creation. Bold action on what? Global poverty, health care, climate change, peace and security, and access to quality education for all, with special emphasis on the needs of Africa.

Very well. Hmm. Anything missing from that list?

To be fair, the bishops are following up on a December letter sent by Pope Benedict to Chancellor Angela Merkel, current president of the G8, where His Holiness highlighted many of the same topics. Nevertheless, you would think that with objectives toward life and dignity, they could work in a pro-life riff.

[submitted by e-mail]

Pope Benedict's Prayer Intentions for June

Memorial of St. Justin

General prayer intention:

That the Lord may protect sailors and all those involved in Maritime activities.

Mission prayer intention:

That the Church in North Africa may bear witness, with its presence and its
action, to God’s love for every individual and all people.

For more info, see the Apostleship of Prayer.