Statement Regarding the Sentencing of Derek Chauvin
Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda
I pray that today’s sentencing will bring a measure of peace and healing to George Floyd’s family, his friends, and our community, while prompting us to go deeper in our conversations about race, justice, violence, and peace.
Please join me in praying that the Lord will guide us in those conversations, no matter how difficult and uncomfortable they may be, while bringing consolation to the Floyd family, healing to our community, and protection to all who work for peace.
See also:
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Statement of the Minnesota Catholic Conference at the Close of the Trial of Derek Chauvin
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Statement of U.S. Bishop Chairmen on Verdict in Trial of Derek Chauvin
- From The Catholic Spirit: : Chauvin found guilty in death of George Floyd
- Statement from Archbishop Hebda Regarding the Death of Daunte Wright
Statement Regarding Start of Derek Chauvin Trial
From Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda on March 5, 2021
With the trial of former Minneapolis Police officer Derek Chauvin beginning Monday, there is a certain level of anxiety permeating the Twin Cities. For many, the beginning of the trial brings back memories of the anger that erupted last Spring after the death of George Floyd. We recall the violence and unrest that accompanied the calls for justice. Many now are fearful about what may happen during the trial and in its aftermath – no matter what the jury’s verdict will eventually be. And all of that emotion is heightened by the ongoing pandemic that has brought additional death, illness and sadness to our world, country, state, communities and families.
On this third Sunday of Lent, we join with the Church around the world in praying Psalm 95: “If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” God is always asking us to listen for his voice and to allow that voice to penetrate our hearts. We cannot let our hearts harden. God calls us to be people of peace, hope and love. He also calls us to be people of justice – not revenge.
I hope you will join me during the trial by blocking-out time in our busy lives to stop and pray. Whether we can take 30 seconds or 30 minutes, let us commit to praying each day for peace in our communities, peace for the Floyd family and peace for our first responder sisters and brothers working to protect us. Please join me as well in praying for an end to the scourge of racism in our country.
We have seen time and again that we do not have the power to bring peace, equality and justice to our world on our own. If there was ever a time to join together and ask our merciful God for his help, this is it. “If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.”
Find ways to respond to racism, including pastoral letters, study guides, information and prayer opportunities.
Stay informed with The Catholic Spirit:
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Post-Chauvin verdict, Bishop Cozzens addresses justice and forgiveness
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Priest devotes three nights to public rosaries in light of Brooklyn Center shooting
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Lawyer: Following a Chauvin verdict, Catholics can be ‘rocks in the storm’
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Catholic leaders in places affected by last year’s rioting fear trial-related repeat
- Archbishop’s Column: Racism and the work of conversion
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With faith leaders, Archbishop Hebda prays ahead of trial for death of George Floyd
