Ohio Death Penalty Set to Resume January 12, 2017
In January of 2015, the State of Ohio announced a moratorium on the use of the death penalty due to the lack of availability of required drugs. This moratorium is set to be lifted on January 12, 2017, with the execution of Ronald Phillips.
Bishop Daniel E. Thomas urges all Catholics and people of good will to take five steps to abolish the death penalty in the State of Ohio:
1. Pray for the victims of crime, those facing execution, and those working in the criminal justice system;
2. Reach out to the families of those affected by violent crime by bringing Christ’s love and compassion;
3. Learn about the Church’s teaching on capital punishment and educate others in this vital area of concern by visiting: http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/death-penalty-capital-punishment/index.cfm;
4. Advocate for the end of the death penalty by sending a postcard and by calling Governor John Kasich at: 614-466-3555, urging clemency for all 139 individuals on death row in the State of Ohio.
5. Join us for a Candlelight Prayer Vigil for the abolition of the death penalty, on Wednesday, January 11, 2017 at 6 p.m. at St. Francis de Sales Chapel, 501 Cherry St., Toledo OH 43604.
For more information, contact Nick Lyster, Justice Ministry Coordinator at nlyster@toledodiocese.org