Dear Parishioners, The horrible events of last week's riots at the U.S. Capitol have helped Americans to see how fragile democracy really is. Five people lost their lives, countless others were injured as the nation and the world watched the violence unfold. The attack was incited by right-wing social media groups. President Trump and Rudy Giuliani must also take the blame for encouraging the "march on the Capitol." Our citizens have listened to lies about voter fraud, "stolen" elections and all kinds of misinformation for years. This is not just an attack on the results of the 2020 election. It is a precedent — a possible permission slip for similar opposition to the outcomes of future elections. It must be clearly rejected, and placed beyond permissible conduct. It is time for a peaceful change. Republicans and Democrats were appalled at the attack on our Capitol building and our federal legislators. It is contrary to everything this country stands for and represents a clear and present danger to the constitutional order of this country. This attempt to disrupt and destroy the democratic process should be repugnant to the hearts of all Americans and must be denounced from every platform and pulpit in our country. Our country is desperately in need of healing and reconciliation. We have to move on together, debating our differences and solving our political disagreements in a civil and respectful manor. May God help us heal our nation. God bless you. Fr. Paul Alciati