http://www.txcatholic.orgThe Texas Catholic Conference is the Official Public Policy Voice of the Catholic Bishops of Texas. See our latest news below:http://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=de09e4a63fff28ade4c599ed2&id=0d48daf104&e=This week's Voice includes our July Capitol Comments titled "A Government Of the People, For the People, By the People." It also includes information from the US Bishops on Marriage, Immigration, and Marriage. http://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=de09e4a63fff28ade4c599ed2&id=707f07fb55This week's Voice includes a statement from Cardinal DiNardo regarding a new abortion drug, two action alerts, information on the US Bishops' response to the oil spill, and information on a new web site created by the USCCB Ad Hoc Committee for the Defense of Marriage.http://blog.txcatholic.org/2010/07/celebrate-independence-with-prayer-for.html#axzz0sXOVrLt5We wish you a safe and joyous Independence Day weekend! As we celebrate Independence Day, we invite you to pray for our nation:God our Father,Giver of life,we entrust the United States of America to Your loving care.You are the rock on which this nation was founded.You alone are the true source of our cherished rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.Reclaim this land for Your glory and dwell among Your people.Send Your Spirit to touch the hearts of our nation´s leaders.Open their minds to the great worth of human life and the responsibilities that accompany human freedom.Remind Your people that true happiness is rooted in seeking and doing Your will.Thank you for the freedom to act as Faithful Citizens and to advocate for the least among us.We pray for our brothers and sisters who do not share in our freedoms.Through the intercession of Mary Immaculate,Patroness of our land,grant us the courage to reject the "culture of death", moral relativism, and all the snares of the devil.Lead us into a new millennium of life in your divine light.We ask this through Christ Our Lord.Amen.Read more: Texas Catholic Conference Blog: Celebrate Independence with a Prayer for our Nationhttp://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=de09e4a63fff28ade4c599ed2&id=564ea6c326Current law states that military health care facilities may not be used to perform elective abortions. An amendment by Sen. Roland Burris (D-IL) to strike this provision from law was approved during committee consideration of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011 (S. 3280). Contact Senators Cornyn and Hutchison today and ask them to reverse the Burris Amendment and uphold our nation's current law on military abortions.http://www.txcatholic.org/voice_52810.aspThis week's Voice includes information on an update to our new email newsletter system, as well as an update on the Archdiocese of San Antonio and a statement from the Bishops on amendments to the Health Care Law.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3988This week's Voice includes our May Capitol Comments on Labor Day (yes you read that correctly!). It also includes information on the Tyler Priest who has been named the first Auxiliary Bishop of Phoenix, as well as information on the Young Institute's Summer Conference, titled "Care for God's Creation."http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3987Feliz Cinco de Mayo! Read this week's Voice for information on Cinco de Mayo and on two recent statements by US Bishops on Immigration Reform. Also in this week's Voice is information on Pope Benedict's recent comments regarding nuclear war and marriage.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3986This week's Voice gives you information on legislative agenda for the 82nd session, as well as information on how to watch this week's Episcopal Ordination in Dallas online. Also, more helpful links for the USCCB regarding Vocations and Catholic Social teaching are included.http://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3985This week's Voice gives you information on the upcoming Charity in Truth Conference, hosted by the TCC Charity and Justice Department. It also includes an Action Alert on Humanitarian Funding and START Treat. Finally, there's information on two great resources, TexasCatholicTV.com, a web site developed by the Diocese of Dallas' newspaper, as well as information on the updated ForYourMarriage.org web site.http://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3984TX Catholic Voice: Archbishop Gomez named Coadjutor of Los Angeles, April Capitol Comments, Health Care Resourceshttp://blog.txcatholic.org/2010/04/archbishop-jose-gomez-named-to-be.htmlThe people of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, the largest archdiocese in the United States, now know who will be the successor to Cardinal Roger M. Mahony upon his retirement. Archbishop José Gomez has been named the "coadjutor archbishop" of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles by Pope Benedict XVI, which carries with it the right of succession. As coadjutor archbishop, Archbishop Gomez will aid Cardinal Mahony in the governance of the diocese and would take his place if he is absent or impeded. The appointment was made public by the Vatican this morning at 5 a.m. San Antonio time.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3983This week's Voice includes resources from the Vatican web site on Holy Week, more information regarding Health Care Reform, and an opportunity for Hispanic Ministry training.http://blog.txcatholic.org/2010/03/texas-bishops-reiterate-support-of.htmlWe, the Catholic Bishops of Texas wish to reiterate our unified support of the position of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in opposing the current Senate Health Care Reform Bill. In light of this, we find the remarks of Bishop Emeritus John McCarthy on this topic to be disappointing. Others may have personal views that differ from our position, but they cannot speak for the Catholic Church in Texas.As a community of faith the Catholic Church supports true health care reform. True health care reform ensures that health care is accessible and affordable for all, while maintaining current federal law regarding abortion funding and conscience protection. Unfortunately, the Senate version before the House at this time would change current federal law and provide tax dollars for elective abortions. This is a drastic shift from current law, which under the Hyde Amendment, bars federal funding for abortions or plans that include abortion. In addition, the Senate version does not include a conscience protection for physicians and hospitals who are morally opposed to performing abortions. The Senate version would also prohibit those among us who are undocumented from purchasing health insurance with their own money.http://blog.txcatholic.org/2010/03/texas-bishops-do-not-support-current.htmlThe Texas Bishops have written to the Texas Congressional Representatives to reiterate their call to support genuine, life-affirming health care reform and ask that Representatives oppose the current Senate Health Care Reform bill. The letter refutes the claim that there are no significant differences between the House and Senate health care reform bills on the issue of abortion, and includes resources that analyze these differences.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3981Happy St. Patrick's Day from the Texas Catholic Conference! This week's Voice includes the March Capitol Comments, which discuss St. Patrick and his experiences as a victim of human trafficking. Also in the Voice is news on the two new Auxiliary Bishops appointed to the Diocese of Dallas, as well as more information on Health Care Reform.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3980Bishops on Health Care Reform, Job Openings in Dallas, New Death Penalty Resource and more.http://blog.txcatholic.org/2010/03/oppose-hr-4247-preventing-harmful.htmlAction Alert: Oppose H.R. 4247 - Preventing Harmful Restraint and Seclusion in Schools Act TAKE ACTION NOW! "Our nation was conceived as a place wherein all people could exercise their basic human rights in an atmosphere of freedom," stated the Texas Bishops in their statement Education Opportunity for All. "Among these rights is equal access to educational opportunities and resources so that each person can fully develop his or her potential." The TCC supports the protection and safety for all students. However, H.R. 4247, the Preventing Harmful Restraint and Seclusion in Schools Act, imposes burdensome data collection, internal monitoring and reporting, and unprecedented federal certification requirements on private school personnel, rather than focusing directly on dangerous types of situations. Read More >>http://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3979This week's Texas Catholic Voice includes information on our policy on primary elections, the registration brochure for the Charity and Truth conference, and Lenten resources.http://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3978This week's Texas Catholic Voice includes information on the status of national health care reform, Pope Benedict's 2010 Lenten Message, and a report on Hispanic Ministry initiatives.http://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3977This week's Texas Catholic Voice includes information on Pope's selection of a new Texas bishop, an Action Alert and updated information on National Health Care Reform, and Lenten Resources from Catholic Relief Services.http://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3975This week's Texas Catholic Voice includes information on Pope's selection of a new Texas bishop, a Justice for Immigrants Parish Kit, and information on the USCCB and CRS response on the earthquake in Haiti.http://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3974Happy New Year from the TCC! This week's Voice includes information on the legislative work of the TCC during the interim. It also includes an Action Alert on Health Care Reform, and information on the Bishops' Push for Immigration Reform. Click here to read the entire Voice.http://blog.txcatholic.org/2010/01/us-bishops-announce-push-for.htmlThe U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) on January 6, announced steps to push for the enactment of immigration reform legislation in 2010. Bishop John C. Wester, bishop of Salt Lake City, Utah, and chairman of the USCCB Committee on Migration, and Bishop Howard J. Hubbard, bishop of Albany, New York, and chairman of the International Policy Committee of the USCCB, made the announcement. “It is our view, and that of others, that the American public, including the Catholic and other faith communities, want a humane and comprehensive solution to the problems which beset our immigration system, and they want Congress to address this issue,” said Bishop Wester. Read more »http://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3970Information on the newly appointed bishop of Brownsville, Health Care Updates, Articles on Immigration and Environmentalism.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3969The full Senate is considering their health care reform bill. The bishops are strongly urging the Senate to incorporate essential changes to the Senate’s health care reform bill to ensure that needed health care reform legislation truly protects the life, dignity, consciences and health of all. The amendment could come to the Senate floor as early as today! Please contact your Senators today!http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#12709nhcAmendment precludes use of federal dollars for elective abortion coverage. Bishops want Stupak-style House amendment included in Senate bill, and oppose making people pay for other people's abortions The U.S. bishops have voiced support for the Nelson-Hatch-Casey Amendment to the Senate health reform bill and have asked voters to back it. Read more.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3967Call your Senators & pass it on: Urge TX Senators to Support Hatch-Nelson Amendment that prohibits abortion funding. Huthchison-- 202-224-5922, Cornyn-- 202-224-5922. See action alert here http://ow.ly/IDhShttp://www.usccb.org/mr/mediatalk/StupakAmendmentFactsheet.pdfThere are a number of misunderstandings and false claims regarding the Amendment adopted by the House. Here is a summary of what it really does,1 and some answers to frequently asked questions.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#1111MedicaidAs we focus on Health Care Reform at the National level, the Texas Catholic Conference continues to advocate for health care improvements at home in Texas. We wrote a letter today asking for support in improving the Medicaid eligibility process. Last month, nearly 85,000 fewer Texas children had Medicaid health coverage in October, compared to September enrollment levels. This is the second instance in less than a year of more than 70,000 Texas children losing Medicaid coverage in a single month's time, which is a symptom of broader challenges in our state's eligibility system.Improving health care is the responsibility of all and going to the aid of others is a duty, we reiterated in the letter.http://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3772This week’s Texas Catholic Voice includes more information on health care reform, an article on Latinos and Education, and information on issues that will be discussed at the USCCB upcoming meeting.http://www.TXcatholic.org/The USCCB has released a pulpit announcement and bulletin announcement as well as an action alert bulletin insert for use in parishes and general circulation. You can download them from our website, www.TXcatholic.orghttp://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3767The Texas Catholic Conference, representing the Roman Catholic Bishops of Texas, has issued a statement emphasizing their support for genuine, life-affirming reform to our nation's health care system, while also expressing concern that current health care proposals fail to guarantee fundamental rights and protections for humans at all stages of life.The Texas Bishops have issued a statement urging Congress to support health care reform that is life-affirming. We encourage you to contact your Congressional Senator and Representative to reiterate this message.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#1027hcThe Texas Catholic Conference, representing the Roman Catholic Bishops of Texas, has issued a statement emphasizing their support for genuine, life-affirming reform to our nation's health care system, while also expressing concern that current health care proposals fail to guarantee fundamental rights and protections for humans at all stages of life.Health care reform is a vital concern to us in Texas, as our state has one of the highest numbers of uninsured persons in the nation," say the Texas Bishops in the statement. The Bishops also emphasize the varied health care offerings of Catholic facilities in Texas, stating, "the Catholic Church in Texas brings both everyday experience and strong convictions to the issue of health care reform."http://www.txcatholic.org/capitol_comments.aspTexas is blessed with vibrant respect life ministries throughout the state. Earlier this year, over 400 Catholics gathered at the State Capitol for the Life and Family Life Day, and met with every state legislative office to discuss the importance of legislation that respects the life of all people.Several dioceses celebrate October as Respect Life month. Many are participating in 40 days for Life, in which participants pray and offer support for mothers to choose life at abortion facilities, as well as Life Chains. Other dioceses are hosting public square rosaries or events involving prayer to end the death penalty. Other activities include Lock-ins, Strike for Life bowling, and Hikes for Life, Gabriel Project trainings and donation drives, sidewalk counselor training, parenting classes, movie screenings, adoration and rosaries for life.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3766This voice includes a Congratulations Note to Archbishop Aymond from the Texas Bishops, Capitol Comments entitled, "Health Care Reform - To Support or not Support? Is that really the question?", and more Health Care Reform Resourceshttp://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3766Archbishop Gomez leads Hispanic Bishops' Delegation, More Health Care Reform Resources.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3767Now that Congress has returned to Washington and is again working on health care reform, we need your advocacy more than ever.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3766This week's Voice includes the U.S. Bishops' Labor Day Statement, Information on Next Month's Scripture Seminar, a Stem Cell Primer, and more information on Health Care Reform.http://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3765This week's Voice includes more health care reform resources, our August Capitol Comments, a Catholic Relief Services article on microfinance, and more. Also, news on our new facebook fan page www.facebook.com/TXcatholic. Read the voice here: http://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3765http://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3756This week's Voice includes additional resources on health care reform, including a new letter from Cardinal Rigali to the House of Representatives on the "America's Affordable Health Choices Act" (H.R. 3200) as well as information on legal immigrants in health care reform and issues related to coverage of low income in health care reform. The Voice also includes a link to the 2009-10 Respect Life program packet, which is now available online. Click the following link to read the entire Voice: http://www.TXcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3756http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#811resourcesCardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia urged preservation of "longstanding federal policies that prevent government promotion of abortion and respect conscience rights," and called current House health care legislation "seriously deficient" on the issue of mandated coverage and funding of abortion. He cited his concerns in an August 11 letter to the U.S. House of Representatives. Read the letter here. Also available on our web site are the following resources: Issues Related to Coverage of Low Income in Health Care Reform andLegal Immigrants in Health Care Reformhttp://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#83hcrBoth the USCCB Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities and the National Catholic Bioethics Center (NCBC) have provided updates on Health Care Reform legislation being considered in Congress. We will continue to provide relevant updates on this issue during the Summer District Work Period (summer recess).The National Catholic Bioethics Center expresses several reservations on the legislation, specifically stating that current provisions mandate at least one plan in every region of the country that covers abortion. In addition, the legislation may preempt state laws regulating abortion and jeopardize the conscience protections of health care providers and parents. Finally, NCBC is concerned that the proposal may constitute rationing of care toward persons with special needs and that the advanced care planning consultations included in the proposal may result in medical orders that exclude life affirming and proportionately beneficial care. Visit our Blog to read more.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#730rigaliCardinal Rigali reiterated criteria for “genuine health care reform” set forth by Bishop William Murphy, Chairman of the bishops’ Committee on Domestic Policy, in his letter to Congress on July 17. He described health care as “a basic right belonging to all human beings, from conception to natural death” and said that “the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops is working to ensure that needed health reform is not undermined by abandoning longstanding and widely supported policies against abortion funding and mandates and in favor of conscience protection.”http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3751Today we received an update on health care reform from the USCCB. We are including the update along with other information on Health Care Reform below. We also have 3 current action alerts and resources on the new encyclical.Today we received an update on health care reform from the USCCB. We are including the update along with other information on Health Care Reform below:Today we received an update on health care reform from the USCCB. We are including the update along with other information on Health Care Reform below:http://www.usccb.org/comm/archives/2009/09-161.shtmlFor decades, the Catholic bishops of the United States have been and continue to be consistent advocates for comprehensive health care reform that leads to health care for all, including the weakest and most vulnerable. The bishops want to support health care reform. We have in the past and we always must insist that health care reform excludes abortion coverage or any other provisions that threaten the sanctity of life.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3747For decades, the Catholic bishops of the United States have been and continue to be consistent advocates for comprehensive health care reform that leads to health care for all, including the weakest and most vulnerable. The bishops want to support health care reform. We have in the past and we always must insist that health care reform excludes abortion coverage or any other provisions that threaten the sanctity of life.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3746In this week's Texas Catholic Voice: New Encyclical Available, Scripture Seminar Registration Open, Pope meets with Pres. Obama.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#78caritasPope Benedict XVI's newest encyclical, Caritas in Veritate, which translates to "Charity in Truth" is now available.http://ow.ly/gCZZCardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia, chair of the Committee on Pro-Life Activities for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, wrote to members of the House Appropriations Committee today urging them not to fund abortions in the District of Columbia. Contact Texas Representatives on the committee today and reiterate Cardinal Rigali's message.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3583Governor Perry has called for a special session that will begin on July 1, 2009. Call Governor Perry today toll-free at 1.888.746.9714 and ask him to include Choose Life License Plates and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) on the agenda.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#625chipThe letter notes that with the call of a Special Session, Texas regains the opportunity to finish a critical piece of unfinished state business: providing 80,000 uninsured children in hard-working Texas families access to affordable health care. A similar letter is being circulated by state legislators and has gained considerable support. View our blog for information on contacting Governor Perry about this important issue.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#622VetoThe Texas Catholic Conference is disappointed that Governor Perry vetoed 2 TCC-Supported Bills last week - bills that would have improved pre-kindergarten in Texas (HB 130) and also offered some correctional officers the option to participate in a loan repayment programs (HB 518).http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#612aymondPope Benedict XVI has named Bishop Gregory Aymond of Austin, Texas, 59, as Archbishop of New Orleans. He succeeds Archbishop Alfred Hughes, who turned 75 in 2007. According to Canon Law, bishops submit their resignation to the pope when they turn 75.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#611CardinalChip"The failure of the Texas Legislature to address the critical need for healthcare for our uninsured children was disappointing," stated Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. "With the announcement of a special session the governor has an opportunity to provide hope to the families of the 80,000 children in Texas who would have access to health insurance through the CHIP buy-in program. This program promotes family responsibility while respecting the sanctity of human life and the dignity that belongs to all human persons, who are made in the image of God. It is our prayer that the Governor and the members of the Texas Legislature can provide hope for these working families."http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#611CapcomThe 81st regular session of the Texas Legislature has just closed, but they clearly have not finished their business in the capitol for the summer. At the time of this writing, the Governor has already indicated that he will be calling a special session to address some of these issues. Texas Catholic Conference divides our advocacy work into five areas: Life Issues, Immigration, Education, Health & Human Services and Criminal Justice Reform. While many of the concerns of the Texas Bishops fall into several of these categories, we determine which area to place an issue based on which committees of the Texas Legislature work on these types of bills.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#62The 81st Regular Session of the Texas Legislature is over. We have had several successes this session, and we thank all of those who advocated with us. This week we will be posting information on bills we took a position on that have been sent to the Governor. We are also composing a report of the outcomes of this legislative session that will be available in the next few weeks.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3577Right now, affordable health insurance for 80,000 uninsured children is in jeopardy. Last night, the Texas House blocked consideration of the CHIP buy-in bill. Click here to read our CHIP Action Alert and ask for support of CHIP.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#527chipThe House and Senate each overwhelmingly passed strong, similar children’s health coverage bills, but battles around other issues now threaten to kill this legislation and keep roughly 80,000 children from seeing a doctor. With the clock running out on this legislative session, our state leaders must not hold children hostage to politics.http://www.txcatholic.orgThank you for your advocacy and prayers yesterday. Several bills passed yesterday and we have a few more on the calendar for today. Visit our web site to see what bills are on the calendar today. You can also view which bills have passed since we sent yesterday's action alert.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3562Senate Bill 73, which establishes an adult stem cell research program, has passed the Senate and has been referred to the House Public Health Committee. We need your help to ensure that this bill gets through committee and onto the Major State Calendar to ensure that it meets the bill deadlines and remains viable.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#56alertWe have reached the 121th day of the Texas Legislative session and there are now only 26 days left of the Texas 81st Regular Session. We have been busy, tracking over 300 bills, and we have targeted the following bills as those which especially need your help to continue to be viable this session.http://www.txcatholic.org/catholic-schools_swine-flu-2009.aspOur prayers are with those who are impacted by the recent outbreaks of Swine Flu. The Texas Bishops are addressing this issue at the diocesan level. Click here to view resources that have been created for Catholic Schools in Texas.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3548This week's Texas Catholic Voice e-newsletter includes Stem Cell and CHIP Action alerts, as well as information on testimony we've provided and what bills are moving.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#416stemcellThe General Appropriations bill is being heard in the Texas House of Representatives on April 17, and the Texas Catholic Conference has distributed a letter to all House Members asking that the appropriations bill ban state funding for embryonic stem cell research. Click here to read the letter.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3525Senate Bill 182 has passed out of committee and is scheduled to be heard on the Senate Floor. Please call your Texas Senator and encourage him or her to support this legislation. Visit www.TXcatholic.org for more information on the bill, information on how to contact your State Senator, and a sample message that you can use.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3517This week we testified on the following bills: HB 681, relating to notification of mercury levels in fish, HB 682, relating to the Abolition of the Death Penalty, Testimony on SB 73, relating to the establishment of an adult stem cell research program, and Testimony on SB 21, relating to an enhanced quality full-day prekindergarten program provided by public school districts in conjunction with community providers.http://tinyurl.com/d9wrwrOver 400 people from around the state attended the Texas Catholic Conference Charity and Justice Advocacy Day at the State Capitol on February 17. Donning blue t-shirts that read “One Catholic Voice – Life, Charity, Justice,” volunteers from around the state made visits to legislative offices to address the Immigration, Health and Human Services, and Criminal Justice public policy priorities of the Bishops of Texas.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3487Both the United States House of Representatives and the Senate have passed different versions of the economic stimulus package entitled American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Call or e-mail your Representatives and Senators: Ask them to contact members of the Conference Committee and urge them to agree to an economic recovery bill that reflects a priority for poor and vulnerable people.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3315Information on the 2009 Scripture Seminar is now available. This year’s seminar, titled The Psalms in the Life and Worship of the Church, will be held from October 6-10, 2009 at St. Mary’s Seminary in Houston.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3486Please call your member of the House of Representatives and ask him or her to co-sponsor (sign on) to H.R. 874, The Freedom to Travel to Cuba Act. This bill -- introduced by Rep. Delahunt (D-MA) and Rep. Flake (R-AZ) last week - would allow travel between the United States and Cuba without existing restrictions. H.R. 874 calls for lifting travel restrictions to Cuba for all Americans, restoring our right as citizens of the United States to travel freely and takes a giant step in fostering engagement over isolation with all countries in the hemisphere.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#1299legmassDespite the plummeting temperature and frigid wind, many made their way to St. Mary’s Cathedral in Austin to celebrate an evening Mass marking the opening of the 81st Legislative Session. The Mass was hosted by Bishop Gregory Aymond, Bishop of the Diocese of Austin, and the Texas Catholic Conference. Bishop Aymond offered the Mass for the intentions of the legislators as well as for a successful legislative session.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3320TAKE ACTION NOW: Urge Support for the SCHIP Unborn Child Amendmenthttp://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3319TAKE ACTION NOW! Urge Congress to include independent and religious schools in economic stimulus packagehttp://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3314TAKE ACTION NOW! Call your senators about the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP).http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#11209Cardinal Dinardo will provide the opening prayer in the House on Tuesday, January 13, 2009, the first day of the Texas 81st Legislative Session. The House has offered a concurrent resolution congratulating Cardinal DiNardo on his elevation to the College of Cardinals. You can read the resolution here.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#121508dignitasDignitas Personae (The Dignity of a Person), an Instruction from the Vatican Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) on ethical issues arising from biomedical research, provides guidance on how to respect human life and human procreation in our heavily scientific age, said Cardinal Francis George of Chicago, president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.https://secure2.convio.net/crs/site/Advocacy?JServSessionIdr004=xi0no4rd41.app45b&pagename=homepage&id=431Ask your members of Congress to sign a bipartisan letter to President-elect Barack Obama in support of a strong international affairs budget that includes critical assistance for poor and marginalized people worldwide. Click here to read more on the Catholic Relief Service's web site.http://www.txcatholic.org/public-policy.aspDuring the legislative session, the Texas Catholic Conference reviews all bills filed and compiles a report of legislation to support or oppose based on our Legislative Agenda . The bill report includes a direct link to the bill's information on the Texas Legislature web site, as well as a summary of the bill and a statement on why we support or oppose it. In addition, the bill report has a Resources column, where we list sources of additional information on issues related to specific bills.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#11120801Cardinal Francis George of Chicago, president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), voiced hope for the Obama Administration but pointed to possible obstacles to our desired unity, in a Nov. 12 statement at the end of the annual fall assembly of the USCCB."The bishops of the Catholic Church in the United States welcome this moment of historic transition and look forward to working with President-elect Obama and the members of the new Congress for the common good of all," he said.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#11020802At a time of economic crisis, the U.S. Catholic bishops issued a statement Nov. 11 reminding people that "we are our brothers' and sisters' keepers. We are all in this together." The brief statement issued by Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, the bishops' president, noted that "hard times can isolate us or they can bring us together." It was drafted during the annual fall meeting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in Baltimore and approved by the body of bishops in a voice vote Nov. 11 as a statement from Cardinal George on their behalf.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#110508The U.S. bishops congratulated President-elect Barack Obama, the first African-American elected President of the United States, and called the event "historic" and coming at a difficult time."Our country is confronting many uncertainties," the bishops said. "We pray that you will use the powers of your office to meet them with a special concern to defend the most vulnerable among us and heal the divisions in our country and our world. We stand ready to work with you in defense and support of the life and dignity of every human person."http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#marriage1108The U.S. bishops have taken their concerns about same-sex unions to YouTube, the popular video-sharing Web site.Both videos are available on YouTube. The English-language video features Archbishop Joseph Kurtz of Louisville, Kentucky, chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) Ad Hoc Committee for the Defense of Marriage. Archbishop José Gomez of San Antonio, chair of the bishops' Committee on Cultural Diversity in the Church, speaks on the Spanish-language video.The USCCB seeks "to promote and protect marriage for the gift that it is and for the blessings that only it can bring to the world. For this reason," the bishops state, "we come forward in defense of marriage."..click here for more information.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3222Haiti – the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere –is struggling to recover from a series of weather emergencies and a political crisis. This recovery is made much more difficult by Haiti’s obligation to pay almost $1 million per week in debt payments to the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). In the midst of a global financial crisis that grips our nation as well, Haiti needs help.http://www.txcatholic.org/blog_10-22-08.asp“Our faith requires us to oppose abortion on demand and to provide help to mothers facing challenging pregnancies," Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia and Bishop William Murphy of Rockville Centre, N.Y., said in an October 21 statement. The bishops urged Catholics to study the teaching of the Church, rather than rely on statements and materials from outside groups and individuals.Cardinal Rigali and Bishop Murphy made the joint statement in response to arguments that the Church should accept the Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision on abortion as a "permanent fixture of constitutional law" and should concede that the only way to reduce abortions is to provide more government support for pregnant women. At the same time the two bishops also responded to those who argue that the Church's efforts against abortion should focus solely on restoring recognition for unborn children's human rights and that proposals to provide social and economic support for pregnant women distract from that effort..http://www.txcatholic.org/policy_Child-Nutrition-Oct-2008.aspThe Bishops of Texas are concerned about the health and welfare of all Texans, especially the poor and vulnerable. The Gospel is clear in calling us to feed the hungry and we operate numerous food pantries and other food assistance programs throughout the state. Our assistance programs have recently become overwhelmed with the needs of the hungry and we are concerned that as companies in Texas adjust to the recession the need for food assistance will only grow.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#101408AustiniteEthiopiaOn his drive from the Addis Ababa Airport to his hotel, Johnnie Dorsey could see homeless people in one darkened impoverished neighborhood after another wrapping themselves in paper and plastic for their night’s sleep. It was a prelude of what he would experience in days to come. Dorsey, the diocesan director of the Office for Black Catholics, was part of a 14-person Catholic Relief Services (CRS) delegation on a visit to its programs in Africa to raise awareness and encourage advocacy of issues affecting the continent’s poor.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#101308VannFarrellBishop Kevin Farrell of the Diocese of Dallas and Bishop Kevin Vann of the Diocese of Fort Worth have written a joint letter to the Faithful of their Dioceses. Click here to read the statement in English or click here to read the statement in Spanish.http://www.txcatholic.org/bishops_Gomez-Immigration-1008.aspArchbishop Gomez delivered the keynote address at the 2008 Missouri Catholic Conference Annual Assembly on the topic of immigration. The title of his talk was: Let Your Hospitality and Good Works Abound: The Catholic Contribution to Immigration Reform. "To be a Catholic is to be a man or woman who serves God in the poor, in the least of these. To be a Catholic is to be a person who welcomes the stranger in need. This is who we are... The Church's interest in immigration is not a recent development. It doesn't grow out of any political or partisan agenda. No. It is a part of our original religious identity as Catholics, as Christians. We must defend the immigrant if we are to be worthy of the name Catholic."http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#093008FOCAIn a statement to mark Respect Life Sunday, October 5, Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia urged Catholics "to help build a culture in which every human life without exception is respected and defended." "Let us rededicate ourselves to defending the basic rights of those who are weakest and most marginalized: the poor, the homeless, the innocent unborn, and the frail and elderly who need our respect and our assistance," he said.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#092608FinancialCrisisBishop William Murphy of the Diocese of Rockville Centre and chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development recently released a letter on financial crisis that urges a moral response to the financial crisis.http://www.txcatholic.org/Catholic Charities offices in the affected areas are working hard to provide assistance to those in need. See the following links for information on donating to affected areas.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3211In the wake of devastating hurricanes and storms, contact your members of Congress TODAY and ask them to remove obstacles to providing assistance to the suffering people of Cuba. For many years, the Holy See, the Cuban Bishops and the USCCB have pointed to the disproportionate impact of the embargo on the poorest Cubans and the ineffectiveness of the embargo at achieving its goals. In light of the recent hurricanes, our advocacy efforts have now reached a critical stage.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#092208BorderViolenceOn September 18, 2008, TCC Executive Director Andrew Rivas testified to the State Senate Committee on International Relations & Trade on the topic of Border Violence. "As a Church that proclaims all human life is sacred and that the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral vision for society, the Bishops understand that crime undermines the common good and criminal behavior threatens the lives and dignity of others. As pastors and teachers of the Gospel, the Bishops call all of us to restore respect for law and life by protecting and rebuilding our communities, by confronting crime without vengeance, and by defending life without taking life.”http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#09152008Those affected by Hurricane Ike continue to be in our prayers. Catholic Charities offices in the affected areas are working hard to provide assistance to those in need.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#ikeWe offer the following prayer for those affected by Hurricane Ike. Heavenly Father, All Creation is under your control;Guard and guide those evacuating.Let your peace reign in their hearts;Let them be filled with a warm meal;And let them have safe shelter this day. Jesus, just as you stilled the storm on the sea;Still any fear in the hearts of those evacuating. For just as your family fled when you were a babe You watch over those families fleeing now. Holy Spirit, author of Life;Protect the lives and belongings of all affected by the storm And open all of our hearts to help those in need. Mother Mary, lay your mantle of protection over those evacuating due to Hurricane Ike.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#0902ConstantTeachingThe USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities has compiled a fact sheet titled: Respect for Unborn Human Life: The Church’s Constant Teaching. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “Since the first century the Church has affirmed the moral evil of every procured abortion. This teaching has not changed and remains unchangeable. Direct abortion, that is to say, abortion willed either as an end or a means, is gravely contrary to the moral law” (No. 2271)...http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#hhsconscience0808Federal regulations protecting health care providers’ conscience rights were released for public comment August 21, by Secretary Michael Leavitt of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The U.S. Catholic bishops’ spokesperson on abortion, Deirdre A. McQuade, welcomed the proposed regulations as a way to protect medical personnel from being coerced to violate their consciences in federally funded programs. “Doctors, nurses, and other medical personnel face pressure to participate in abortion – a practice that many find abhorrent in good conscience,” McQuade said. “The enforcement of federal laws designed to protect their freedom of conscience is long overdue.”http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#jeffwoodCardinal DiNardo of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and Archbishop Gomez of the Archdiocese of San Antonio have issued a joint clemency letter for Jeff Wood, who is scheduled to be executed on August 21, 2008. Although Mr. Wood did not commit murder, he was sentenced to death under the “law of parties” for the murder of Kris Keeran. We have tremendous sympathy for the family of Mr. Keeran and in no way wish to diminish the suffering they have endured as a result of his death. But our faith tradition and the precedent set forth by the Kenneth Foster case last year compel us to ask for mercy for Jeff Wood...click here to read the entire letter.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#laborday08An American Catholic Tradition, the U.S. bishops’ 2008 Labor Day statement calls for “renewed vigor as we seek to build together a society that cares for its own, reaches out to the poor and vulnerable, and offers true hope to all.” Bishop William Murphy of Rockville Centre, New York, Chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, issued the statement to highlight the needs of the nation’s workers, economic inequalities and the responsibilities of all citizens to help improve working conditions.http://www.txcatholic.org/resources.aspThe TCC has recently completed a project to create policy papers for every one of our legislative agenda issues. The policy papers are two pages and include church teaching, facts, and additional links for more information. you can see these Policy Pages by visiting our legislative agenda page here.http://www.txcatholic.org/Audioarchive.aspThe August Relevant to You Radio show is now available on our Audio Archive web page. This month's show covers the topic of Immigration and features Bishop Pfeifer, of the Diocese of San Angelo.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#gomezvaticancommissionArchbishop José H. Gomez of the Archdiocese of San Antonio has been appointed by Pope Benedict XVI as a consultant to the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, whose purpose is to assist the human and spiritual needs of the Latin American church. The announcement was made July 25.http://www.txcatholic.org/view_details.asp?ID=3189The Secretariat for Pro-Life activities of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops is requesting that you contact your representative now and urge him or her to sign onto the Weldon/Davis letter which supports the right of health care entities, including hospitals and insurance providers, to refuse to perform or refer for abortions.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#stemcellstatement0608Declaring that stem-cell research does not present a conflict between science and religion, the U.S. bishops overwhelmingly approved a statement June 13 calling the use of human embryos in such research "gravely immoral" and unnecessary.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#cantublessingOn June 2, 2008, Bishop Cantu was ordained auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of San Antonio at St. Mark the Evangelist Church.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#leies"There is a basic moral principal to do good and avoid evil. All morality is built on that. And using adult stem cell research is a good. There is a moral imperative to move ahead with this," stated Rev. John A. Leies, S.M, S.T.D, a professor of moral theology at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, who represented the Texas Catholic Conference at the May 21 Adult Stem Cell Research hearing before the Texas House Appropriations Committee.http://www.txcatholic.org/tcc-staff-blog.asp#marriageprepBeginning September 1, 2008, Couples who complete an 8-hour marriage preparation course will have their state marriage licensing fee waived. After taking the course, the couple will receive an attendance certificate that is valid for one year for obtaining the license.