As we prepare to begin Passiontide, Bishop Robert Brennan will join us at the 1PM Mass on Sunday, March 22, to commemorate persecuted and suffering Christians around the world. The Marian icon on display in our church is often associated with the papal charity Aid to the Church in Need. The painting shows Mary offering compassion and maternal tenderness to persecuted Christians. It invites us to reflect on the reality that many of our brothers and sisters in Christ still face discrimination and persecution, especially in parts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. At the feet of the Blessed Mother are figures representing suffering Christian communities, including Coptic Christians who remained faithful to Jesus even in the face of death.
Their witness reminds us that our faith is a gift worth defending with love, courage, and hope.
Let’s unite in prayer for these persecuted Christians. Inspired by Pope Leo’s call to stand firm in faith while living in charity with all people, pray for those who suffer, for peace among nations and religions, and for the strength to live our own faith with humility and conviction.
Vatican News: Christians Persecuted Worldwide
