In addition to being the Solemnity of Christ the King, Nov. 26 also marks the Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians, which initiates “Solidarity in Suffering,” a week of awareness and education that runs through Dec. 3.
In his message for the day, Bishop O’Connell recounts the history of anti-Catholic sentiments in the United States and ties them to the ways Christians are treated worldwide.
“Given our history as Catholics and Americans yet bolstered by the resilience and determination that accompany both those identities, the plight of persecuted Christians in the Middle East and, indeed, all around the world, should resonate within our minds and hearts, inspire us to pray, and move us to whatever generosity and action lie within our grasp,” Bishop O’Connell writes. “The cradle of Christianity, in particular, without the presence of Christians — without Christ — is unimaginable … but possible. The situation is that serious.”
The Bishop also calls for prayers for those being persecuted.
“As we celebrate the Solemnity of Jesus Christ our King, let us beg him to protect all those facing persecution for the sake of his name. May Christ the King and Good Shepherd watch over his flock with loving care and never let them be scattered.”
You can read Bishop O’Connell’s full message for the Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians, here.