Dear Fathers:

 

Several locations across Central Washington have "Stand Up for Religious Freedom" rallies.  I have been contacted regarding the presence of the Diocese of Yakima.  While the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops is not opposed to these rallies, we also do not endorse them either.  I am refraining of attending or sending representatives since this is a political forum with candidates running for public office campaigning and in attendance.  I am asking you to exercies the same diligence.  We are teachers and not politicians.  It's very important we maintain our teaching role separate and distinct from any political forum.  Like many bishops across the United States, I want to take great care that the position of the bishops on the question of religoius liberty not be conflated with the platforms of political parties.  I would urge you to review last week's mailing on our upcoming "Fortnight for Freedom" materials that are located on the USCCB web site as well as the do's and don'ts of how we handle political issues in our parishes across the United States.  Again, I thank you for your attention to this matter. 

 

+Bishop Joseph Tyson