Five Things To Remember On April 30

1. Archbishop Paul Coakley of Oklahoma City, said the circumstances surrounding the failed execution and ultimate death of Clayton Lockett "really highlights the brutality of the death penalty, and I hope it leads us to consider whether we should adopt a moratorium on the death penalty or even abolish it altogether. In the meantime, let us pray for peace for all those affected by or involved in last night’s execution in any way – including Lockett himself, his family, prison officials and others who witnessed the event. My compassion and prayers go out especially to the family of Stephanie Neiman, whom Lockett was convicted of killing.”

2. In the latest edition of the USCCB Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities' Life Issues Forum, Deirdre McQuade writes about a downward trend in support for the death penalty.

3. The USCCB has a prayer for an end to the death penalty.

4. Pope Francis spoke on the power of understanding at his general audience today, saying, "Dear friends, how important the gift of understanding is for our Christian life! Through this gift, the Spirit of God breaks through the darkness of our minds and our hearts and makes us true believers, able to enjoy what the Lord reveals to us in His Word and rejoice in all that he does in our lives."

5. God loves you.