ALL HUMAN LIFE IS SACRED: SCHEDULED EXECUTIONS IN FLORIDA
Florida death row inmate, Angel Diaz, is scheduled for execution on December 13 th at Florida State Prison. Last March, the U. S. Catholic Bishops called all Catholics to participate in a campaign to achieve the abolishment of the death penalty. Again, in November, our Bishops said, "At a time when the sanctity of life is threatened in many ways, taking life is not really a solution but may instead effectively undermine respect for life." This pending execution gives Florida Catholics the opportunity to be a part of the campaign in a very personal way. Our hearts and lives must have special space for the victims and their loved ones as well. But let it be known that "standing with families of victims does not compel us to support the use of the death penalty" (U.S. Bishops).
ACTION STEPS : Write to Governor Bush/elected officials/local media; Participate in a parish prayer service or liturgy the day of the execution; Attend the vigil at the State Prison ( See schedule below); Discuss the issues in a reflection group using Bishop Wenski's letter as a study guide, as well as the other resource materials enclosed; Contact the Diocesan Respect Life Office (407-246-4819) or Diocesan Criminal Justice Office (407-658-1818) for additional resources.
BUS SCHEDULE FOR PRAY VIGIL AT FLORIDA STATE PRISON (Please contact The Parishes below to sign up for the bus – BUS IS FREE)
December 13, 2006 Execution (Angel Diaz)
| Pickup Locations | Pickup Times | Deanery | County |
| Our Lady of Grace Palm Bay | 12:00pm | Southern | Brevard |
| Our Lady of Lourdes Daytona | 2:00pm | Eastern | Volusia |
SAMPLE PETITIONS FOR LITURGY:
- For men and women who sit on death row awaiting the end of their life.
- For the victims of violence and hatred, that they may be freed from pain and fear.
- For the loved ones of those who have suffered death at the hands of another person, may their hearts experience the healing and reconciling power of the Spirit.
- For the families of those condemned to die, that the hope of the resurrection and the truth of the Gospel of life might strengthen them in their time of need.
- May the witness of the Church to the sacredness of all life, even of those who have done evil acts, serve to call our nation to a new awakening in responding to crime and determining punishment
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