Washington: Amid growing social unrest, political division, and anxiety across the United States, Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), has called on Catholics to unite in prayer for spiritual renewal and healing in the nation. Emphasizing the power of faith during troubled times, the archbishop urged believers to dedicate a Holy Hour for peace, reconciliation, and renewed respect for human dignity.
In his appeal, Archbishop Coakley acknowledged that many people feel overwhelmed and powerless in the face of injustice, violence, and deep polarization. Yet he stressed that individual faithfulness continues to make a difference. “Your prayers matter. Your acts of love matter. Your commitment to justice matters,” he said, reminding the faithful that even small gestures rooted in compassion can contribute to meaningful change.
The USCCB president expressed gratitude for the countless ways Catholics and people of goodwill continue to serve others despite the tense climate. From feeding the hungry and welcoming migrants to caring for the sick and vulnerable, Archbishop Coakley affirmed that no act of mercy goes unnoticed by God. He underscored that every expression of love and justice regardless of scale has lasting value.
Referring to protests taking place across various parts of the country, Archbishop Coakley noted that peaceful assembly, works of mercy, and community care are signs of hope that build peace more effectively than anger or despair. At the same time, he emphasized the importance of respecting lawful processes, stressing that peace and justice must walk together.
Turning to recent incidents of violence, the archbishop addressed the fatal shootings of Renee Good on January 7 and Alex Pretti on January 24 by immigration enforcement officers in Minneapolis, as well as the case of a man detained in Texas. He described these events as tragic failures to uphold the dignity of human life and condemned the indifference and injustice they represent. Such losses, he said, are stark reminders of a societal climate in which fear and division flourish when human worth is disregarded.
Archbishop Coakley warned that this atmosphere of fear and polarization falls short of the values taught by Christ in the Gospel. He called for a renewed moral response rooted in compassion, justice, and respect for every person.
As a concrete step toward healing, the USCCB president invited bishops and priests across the country to organize a Holy Hour for Peace in the coming days. He encouraged prayers for reconciliation where divisions persist, for justice where fundamental rights are denied, and for comfort for those burdened by grief, anxiety, or loss.
The invitation extends to all Catholics, whether gathered in parishes and chapels or praying quietly in their homes and hearts. Archbishop Coakley expressed hope that this shared moment of prayer would foster renewal both within individuals and across the nation.
Concluding his message, he urged the faithful to entrust their fears and aspirations to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, asking to be made instruments of peace and witnesses to the inherent dignity of every human person. “Let us pray together,” he said, “with confidence that God hears the cry of His people and remains close to all who seek Him.”