May 8, 2026

Dear sisters and brothers in Christ:

As our nation prepares for the 250th anniversary of its founding, the bishops of the United States will consecrate our country to the Sacred Heart of Jesus – a reminder that true unity, healing and peace are found in Him.

Here in the Diocese of Erie, we are invited with dioceses nationwide to take part in this moment in two significant ways. First, through prayer.

From June 11 to July 4, I want to invite you to participate in Eucharistic Adoration. Parishes are encouraged to offer the faithful time before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. Each hour of prayer contributes to a diocesan goal of 250 Hours of Adoration – a sign of unity in Christ across our 13 counties. In the Eucharist, we encounter the Heart of Jesus, receiving grace to love, serve and bring peace.

I also invite all the faithful to join the 250 Works of Mercy this June by offering at least one act of charity – simple expressions of love for those in need. Whether reaching out to the lonely, helping a neighbor, supporting a ministry, or praying for the suffering, no act is too small when offered in love.

Our works of mercy are not separate from our prayer – they flow from it. As we spend time with Christ in the Eucharist, we are sent forth to carry His love into the world. Let us begin before the Lord. Let us remain with Him. And from that encounter, let us go forth in love.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

The Most Rev. Lawrence T. Persico, JCL

Bishop of Erie