As I write this column the death toll in Las Vegas has risen to 59, over 500 injured making it the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. History. This was a dreadful Monday morning we woke up to, learning about the tragedy. Pope Francis, has sent his thoughts and prayers to Las Vegas’ Bishop Joseph Anthony Pepe and the people of the city calling the shooting a “senseless tragedy”. We too join people from all over the world sending prayers for the families affected by this violence.
 
What makes it even more tragic is that last Sunday was Respect Life Sunday. I am saddened by the amount of evil and violence—the culture of death—that seems prevalent in our country:  acts of terrorism, mass shootings, murder in our cities, abuse, domestic violence, and over a million children killed each year by abortion. There are two things needed to overcome violence and evil: faith in God and the loving witness of Him in our lives. There’s much we can do as citizens, as volunteers, as neighbors and family members to help those in need and protect vulnerable individuals from abuse and death. Let us open our hearts and reflect on how God might be calling each of us to witness the sacredness of human life. Thank you to all who joined in prayer and silent presence at the corner of Mack and Whittier. Thank you to all who came on Wednesday and Friday Adoration to pray for the victims and injured in this most recent tragedy. Thank you to all who say Yes to life and No to the culture of death