Dear Parishoners,

You may already be aware of the decision made by the Dept of Health and Human Services concerning the freedom of conscience of Roman Catholic Church institutions. For more info, read Biship Murphy's column in the February 5 bulletin.

To correct the threats to religious liberty and rights of conscience posed by the new health care law, the Respect for Rights of Conscience Act has been introduced in Congress (H.R. 1179, S. 1467). This measure will ensure that those who participate in the health care system "retain the right to provide, purchase, or enroll in health coverage that is consistent with their religious beliefs and moral convictions." It is more important than ever that Members of Congress be urged to co-sponsor and work to pass this measure.

Please contact Senators Schumer and Gillibrand and Representative Tim Bishop:

http://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/contact

http://www.schumer.senate.gov/contact/contact_chuck.cfm

http://timbishop.house.gov/contact

More information is available through Telecare. Bishop Lori was interviewed on the subject on Everyday Faith Live! on Telecare. You can watch using link

http://www.telecaretv.org/mediaPortal/player.dbml?&dboemid=24700&id=8434... ID=24700

The U.S. Bishops have created a website that provides the latest information on the HHS issue. Parishoners can take action and send an email to their congressional representative voicing opposition to the mandate. See www.usccb.org/conscience

~Father Joe