It has become impossible to ignore the war being waged in our society over the recognition of human dignity. From the incessant horrors of the abortion industry to the persistent attacks on marriage and the family, the world around us is growing increasingly hostile to the truth and teachings of our Church.

Amid the many battles we face, I want to call your attention specifically to the important work that is being accomplished by the apostolate Courage and the opportunities on the horizon at the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia.

I am grateful for the work of Courage, which reaches out to men and women with same-sex attraction, in order to help them and their families find hope and healing in Christ. Courage has recently concluded its 28th national conference in Mundelein, Ill., and is following that up Aug. 10-12 near Detroit, with a conference that will address some of the thorny issues to be tackled at the October synod on marriage and the family.

As this print edition arrives in your mailbox, we are nearly a month away from the World Meeting of Families. What better way to celebrate the institution that Christ himself ordained than to gather in faith, friendship and solidarity with families from around the world?

May the work of apostolates and events such as these continue to spread the good news of Christ’s vision of humanity — and the true dignity of the human person.

God bless you!