Events Draw Attention to Religious Liberty

Jacksonville, Fla. – The U.S. bishops have called for a second Fortnight for Freedom – a nationwide effort of prayer and action to address the current challenges to religious liberty, including the August 1 deadline for religious organizations to comply with the HHS mandate, Supreme Court rulings that could attempt to redefine marriage, and concerns with immigration and humanitarian services.  

The two-week event was first launched last year in the wake of what Catholic leaders viewed as mounting attacks on religious freedom throughout the country and world.

On June 22, the Diocese of St. Augustine will kick-off this year’s Fortnight for Freedom with a special Mass for Religious Liberty on the Feast of St. Thomas More, 10 a.m., at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine.

Other planned events include:

• June 26: March for Religious Liberty, 10 a.m., Mass at Immaculate Conception, Downtown Jacksonville, followed by a procession around the Federal Courthouse off Hogan Street.
• June 29: Freedom Film Festival, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Cody Enrichment Center at St.  Joseph Catholic Church. Liberty-themed movies will be played throughout the day.
• June 30: Eucharistic Holy Hour, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., St. Catherine’s Catholic Church, Orange Park. 
• July 6: Mass for the Nation, 8 a.m., St. Luke Catholic Church, Middleburg.

For more information, call Mike Day at (904) 308-7474 or visit: www.dcfl.org.