AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM BISHOP WALKOWIAK

Most Reverend David J. Walkowiak, bishop of Grand Rapids, issues the following statement after the release of video in the officer-involved shooting of Mr. Patrick Lyoya.

We always grieve the loss of life, but especially when it happens in such a violent and tragic way.
Please join me in praying for the repose of the soul of Mr. Lyoya and for his family as they grapple with the loss of their loved one and seek answers. We must also hold the men and women in our law enforcement community in prayer, recognizing the impact this is having on them as well.

Our community is hurt and angry. This pain cannot be ignored. In this moment we are called as brothers and sisters to pray fervently, care for each other, and work peacefully for justice. We must remember we are disciples of Christ and those are not mere words. Through baptism, we are called to do our part to share in His mission to build up of the kingdom of justice, love and peace, both here on earth and in our hearts.

During this Holy Week, we have many opportunities to join together in prayer and worship. On Easter, we
celebrate in a most powerful way the power of God’s love and mercy over sin and death. As followers of the risen Lord, we are called to put such love and mercy into practice and witness to it.