BOSTON – The Massachusetts Catholic Conference has released the following statement on behalf of the four Roman Catholic bishops of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in reaction to Tuesday’s introduction of “An Act relative to the reduction of gun violence” in the Massachusetts Legislature . . .
“The Roman Catholic Bishops of the Commonwealth are in support of adjustments to existing firearm laws. Any law that would address the role that violence, some mental illnesses, and substance abuse play in many tragedies involving firearms would be a welcomed advance in this area of the law and would be a great benefit to our society.
“It appears that the legislation introduced Tuesday is measured and reasonable; it does not infringe upon the rights of sportsmen and others who possess firearms for legal and legitimate purposes. It would help to prevent tragedies such as those in Newtown, Connecticut or more recently in Isla Vista, California. No community is immune to the possibility of a devastating tragedy. Whatever its final form, it is abundantly clear that legislation aimed toward the reduction of preventable deaths is necessary.”
His Eminence Seán P. Cardinal O’Malley, OFM, Cap. Archbishop of Boston
Most Rev. Timothy A. McDonnell Bishop of Springfield
Most Rev. Robert J. McManus
Bishop of Worcester
Most Rev. George W. Coleman
Bishop of Fall River