Archdiocese of Chicago schools hang Peace Banners

In the wake of the violence in Orlando, and across the country, including in the Archdiocese of Chicago, the Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic schools remain committed to peace.

Throughout the summer, the Archdiocese's 229 Catholic schools will display banners that say "We are Praying for Peaceful Summer. Join Us," in the hopes of uniting the community in peace.

Last month 79,000 Catholic school students, 7,500 Catholic school staff members and more than 500 Archdiocesan Pastoral Center employees joined together to pray the Prayer of St. Francis for a peaceful summer.

"Our schools are unified under a Catholic mission, and are institutions that foster peace, mercy and understanding," said Jim Rigg, Ph.D., superintendent of Catholic Schools.

"Peace begins within each of us, particularly our children. We hope that all who see these banners take a moment to pray and reflect on how they can promote peace."

Banners will also be hung at the Archdiocese's Quigley Pastoral Center.

"We hope this banner display will encourage the community to join us in our prayer for peace and change for the better," said Archbishop Blase J. Cupich. "We must pray and take action to address the many causes of violence in our world. Prayer is powerful and action is needed."

The Archdiocesan Office for Peace and Justice, chicagopeaceandjustice.org, has additional information and resources about peace initiatives in the Archdiocese.