Fortnight for Freedom

The fourteen days from June 21—the vigil of the Feasts of St. John Fisher and St. Thomas More—to July 4, Independence Day, are dedicated to this “fortnight for freedom”—a great hymn of prayer for our country. Our liturgical calendar celebrates a series of great martyrs who remained faithful in the face of persecution by political power—St. John Fisher and St. Thomas More, St. John the Baptist, SS. Peter and Paul, and the First Martyrs of the Church of Rome. Culminating on Independence Day, this special period of prayer, study, catechesis and action will emphasize both our Christian and American heritage of liberty.

Many resources are available for use by parishes, groups, individuals and families. Click on the links below and check back often for new materials.

US Bishops Statement on Religious Liberty

Read the statement of the US Bishops on Religious Freedom, "Our First and Most Cherished Liberty."

Our First and Most Cherished Liberty

Learn about the HHS Mandate

Click here to learn more about the HHS Mandate.

Daily Reflections the Fortnight for Freedom

The US Bishops have prepared daily reflections for each day of the Fortnight which may be used by individuals, families and parish groups to learn more. Use the link below to download a copy.

Daily Reflections for the Fortnight for Religious Freedom

Prayers and Worship Resources

By using the links below, you may download prayers and other worship resources specifically for the Fortnight for Freedom.

Litany for Religious Liberty

Prayer for Our Nation by Bishop Hebda

St. Thomas More Prayer for Religious Liberty

Immaculate Conception Prayer for Religious Liberty

Our Lady of Guadelupe Prayer for Religious Liberty

Prayers of the Faithful

Homily Helps and Commentaries

Ecumenical Prayer Service

Ecumenical Intercessions

Educate Yourself and Others

Below you will find a number of articles and materials to help educate yourself and others on the issue of religious freedom. Click on the link to access the files.

Pope Benedict XVI Warns of Threats to Religious Freedom, Conscience Protection

Current Threats to Religious Liberty