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Fortnight for Freedom 2017 June 23rd, 2017
Freedom for Mission – June 21- July 4, 2017
The U.S Catholic Bishops are encouraging observance of “Fortnight for Freedom,” a 14-day period of prayer, education and action in support of religious freedom. The fourteen days from June 21 (Vigil of the Feasts of St. John Fisher and St. Thomas More) to July 4, Independence Day, are dedicated to this “Fortnight for Freedom.” Respectful discussion is being encouraged for better understanding and celebration of religious freedom. Participate in special events or host your own to highlight the importance of defending religious freedom.
Visit USCCB’s website for more information and to download resources for organizing events in your parish and religious community: http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/religious-liberty/fortnight-for-freedom/index.cfm
Anglican Bishop of Colombo Supports Priest Attacked by Right-wing Buddhist Group August 19th, 2014
The Anglican Bishop of Colombo, Rev. R. Canagasabey, today rejected as false, allegations against one of his priests – human rights defender Fr. M. Sathivel – by a mob led by right-wing Buddhist monks (Bodu Bala Sena) which invaded the Oblate-run Center for Society and Religion on August 4. Issuing a statement, the Bishop said,”I do not in any way condone such action against a peaceful gathering and as his Bishop affirm that Rev. M. Sathivel is a long standing and a credible Priest of the Diocese of Colombo with over 25 years of parish and community work with a justice and peace consciousness.”
Read the full statement as a PDF: Bishop of Colombo statement rejecting false allegations against Fr Sathivel-18Aug2014
Learn more about the Centre for Society and Religion, Sri Lanka
UN human rights chief condemns Pakistan assassination; urges reform of blasphemy laws March 3rd, 2011
We are deeply saddened by the death of Pakistan’s Minister for Minority Affairs, Shahbaz Bhatti, and wanted to share this condemnation of his assassination by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights:(2 March 2011) – The High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay on Wednesday condemned the assassination of Pakistan’s Minister for Minority Affairs, Shahbaz Bhatti, who is the second high profile public figure to have been killed since the beginning of the year apparently because of their opposition to Pakistan’s blasphemy laws.
Mr. Bhatti was killed when gunmen attacked his car in Islamabad on 2 March. On 4 January, the Governor of Punjab province, Salman Taseer, was also assassinated in Islamabad by one of his own bodyguards, because of his opposition to the blasphemy laws, and in particular his call for a Christian woman, Asia Bibi, sentenced to death under those laws, to be pardoned.
“These murders are a tragedy for Pakistan and those who envision a future for the country centred on human rights,” the High Commissioner said. “I hope the Government of Pakistan will not only hold the killers to account, but reflect on how it can more effectively confront the extremism which is poisoning Pakistani society.”
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