Five Things To Remember On Jan. 30

1. Yesterday January 29 the U.S. Bishops on January 29 filed amicus briefs in the United States Supreme Court in support of the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and California's Proposition 8, both of which confirm the definition of marriage as the union of one man and one woman. At the heart of their argument, "there is no fundamental right to marry a person of the same sex." The brief also states that "as defined by courts 'sexual orientation' is not a classification that should trigger heightened scrutiny," such as race or ethnicity would.

2. It's Catholic Schools Week and  Bishop Joseph P. McFadden, chairman of the USCCB's Committee said Catholic schools continue to play an important role in society. "Catholic schools are centers for the New Evangelization for families of a variety of socio-economic backgrounds and diverse cultures," said Bishop McFadden of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. "The unique atmosphere of our Catholic schools is a space and place where the New Evangelization can reach out to parents and children in a way that is respectful of the human person, presents the teachings of the Church, and supports family life." 

3. Speaking of Catholic Schools Week: During the week, the USCCB blog is featuring entries from people who reflect on how their lives were and are impacted by Catholic education. Today, Jim Rigg, Ph.D of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati says Catholic schools are on the rise.

4. With Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent just two weeks away, the U.S. Bishops are promoting participation among Catholics in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. There has been increased focus around the country in preaching about the gift of forgiveness and thousands of people have found the confessional light is still on for them.

5. God loves you.