Our mission is to build a civilization of love and life which upholds the dignity
and inviolability of all innocent human life, seeks objective moral Truth,
embraces the value of redemptive suffering, and yearns for the fullness of life
in eternal communion with God the Creator.
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Diocese Rallies for Religious Freedom
BY THE LONG ISLAND CATHOLIC STAFF
Praying the rosary on Montauk Highway in West Islip and then listening to speeches about issues of religious liberty, several hundred people from across Long Island gathered to be “witnesses to freedom” at the annual Rally for Religious Freedom, June 27. The rally was part of the Diocese of Rockville Centre’s observance of the U.S. bishops’ fifth annual Fortnight for Freedom, June 21 to July 4. This year’s theme is Witnesses to Freedom.
The Fortnight for Freedom is “based on love of country and of liberty,” according to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). The aim is to “encourage Catholics, other Christians and all people of goodwill to set aside two weeks to reflect on religious 
freedom.”
Baltimore Archbishop William Lori was the keynote speaker at the rally held at St. John the Baptist High School. Archbishop Lori is chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty. Bishop William Murphy made the opening remarks.
Catholics for Freedom of Religion (CFFR), partnered with the diocese in presenting the rally. Barbara Samuells, president of Catholics for Freedom of Religion and Carol Walters, South Carolina state director, spoke about the work of CFFR.
Leo Nardo, vice-president of the Chaminade H.S. chapter of the Catholic League, also spoke. Msgr. James Vlaun, CEO/president of Telecare served as master of ceremonies.
