Since the tragic and horrific events of Charlottesville Va., just one year ago, the country has seen the effect and impact that racism has had on society. The Bishops of the United States have formed a committee to focus on and address the sin of racism.

During their fall general meeting last month, the U.S. bishops overwhelmingly approved a pastoral letter against racism. The document, “Open Wide Our Hearts: The Enduring Call to Love – A Pastoral Letter Against Racism,” was approved by the full body of bishops by a two-thirds majority vote of 241 to 3 with one abstention.

The full text of the letter may be accessed at http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/racism/ index.cfm. Educational and parish resources – including activities for kindergarten through college-age students, backgrounders, bulletin inserts and prayers – have been created to accompany the letter.

In the Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens, Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio has also formed a Commission on Racism and Social Justice. The goal of this commission is to deal with the social and religious problems presented by racism in all of its forms.

The commission would like to hear from all of the faithful of the Diocese in Brooklyn and Queens.

To that end, there will be an open listening session for all to attend on Saturday, Dec. 8 beginning at 11 a.m. at Holy Family Parish, located at 175-20 74th Avenue in Fresh Meadows. The session will run through 2 p.m. Lunch will be provided.

This session is meant to be an opportunity for every member of the diocese to share how racism has impacted the local parishes and the Church as a whole. All are invited and encouraged to attend.

For more information, call Father Alonzo Cox, secretary for the diocesan commission, at 718-574-5772.