Archbishop Lori: Work toward the restoration of hope

Statement from Archbishop William E. Lori on the tragic events that took place in Baltimore involving a driver and a squeegee worker:

We find ourselves in a deeply painful and difficult moment with the arrest of a 15-year-old boy on murder charges and a 48-year-old father of three gone after a deadly encounter at a busy city intersection. Almost every day, without exception, someone is shot and killed in our city, on some days, it is more than one person, and most of the victims are young people. To find the solution, we must all work together – city leaders, social service providers, business groups, residents, and, of course, the Church. We must look for a way that focuses on the restoration of hope: hope in our communities, hope for our youth, and hope for a clear path forward.

As many feel helpless and hopeless, even distraught or numb, let us unite in prayer for all who have experienced hurt and pain. In acknowledging our differences, may we also acknowledge the dignity of each person, including those with whom we disagree, so as to begin moving toward a lasting solution through this complex, stubborn and systemic challenge.

Archbishop William E. Lori

Archbishop William E. Lori was installed as the 16th Archbishop of Baltimore May 16, 2012.

Prior to his appointment to Baltimore, Archbishop Lori served as Bishop of the Diocese of Bridgeport, Conn., from 2001 to 2012 and as Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Washington from 1995 to 2001.

A native of Louisville, Ky., Archbishop Lori holds a bachelor's degree from the Seminary of St. Pius X in Erlanger, Ky., a master's degree from Mount St. Mary's Seminary in Emmitsburg and a doctorate in sacred theology from The Catholic University of America. He was ordained to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Washington in 1977.

In addition to his responsibilities in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Archbishop Lori serves as Supreme Chaplain of the Knights of Columbus and is the former chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty.