Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki
Archbishop of Milwaukee
 

As a kid growing up on the Southside of Chicago, my Catholic parish was always a standing presence in our neighborhood, through participation in various activities and community events. Our faith community participated regularly in various processions throughout the year. We had processions for Corpus Christi, Forty Hours, May Crowning, patronal feasts and any other time when the pastor deemed it important for us to demonstrate our faith.

In the 1960s, when the Catholic Church started to downplay the importance of religious processions, it seemed that that was when the secular society began to pick up the activity in its marches for civil rights, peace, and whatever other issues captured the support of its citizens at the time.

Having participated in both the religious and the civic versions of processions, one aspect they had in common was that they became universal moments of solidarity. In the civic arena, we identified with others in support of a cause. In religious processions, we proclaimed our identity as Church and outwardly expressed our beliefs.

Many, but not all, who marched in support of various movements, did so because of their faith. In both instances, there was a public movement, a public display of one’s willingness to stand and express one’s identification or support.

The best way to combat any attempt at suppression is to exercise one’s freedom. Karol Wojtyla (Blessed John Paul II) knew that freedom of religion was vital to the integrity of the dignity of the human person. As a cardinal, he held fast to the expression of faith, challenging those who opposed religious freedom. It was this very issue that challenged the Communist regime, leading to its eventual downfall.

As Americans, we cherish the right to participate in religious processions. These actions allow us opportunities to express our faith outside the walls of the Church to proclaim our belief in Jesus Christ. Not many others in this world share the same freedom.

On Monday night, I joined in a procession with members of St. Jerome Parish in Oconomowoc, a “Holy Hour for Freedom.” Fr. John Yockey, pastor of the parish, gave an inspiring homily about today’s threats to religious freedom. Then, accompanying the Blessed Sacrament, hundreds processed while praying the rosary for our country.

Here in the United States, we are blessed to enjoy the freedom of religion. As people of faith, we must stand united against anyone seeking to repress this very principle.

Freedom of religion is our right as Americans. When we exercise this right, we assure its practice. As we process, voice and pray for religious freedom, we do so because we LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Note: This blog originally appeared as a special July 3, 2012 "Love One Another" email sent to Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Milwaukee by Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki for the "Fortnight for Freedom" observance. If you are interested in signing up for these emails, please click here.