From Iraq, to Egypt, to many parts of the Middle East it is unfortunately becoming common to read about assaults on the faithful. Here in the Archdiocese of Toronto, Archbishop Collins have been very encouraging for parishes to sponsor refugee families (he himself has sponsored one). Though this is a concrete way of helping our persecuted brethren, there are those who will not have the opportunity to flee their land -- nor do they want to leave. It is in this cases that we can show solidarity with our persecuted brothers and sisters by praying for them.  And that is Pope Benedict XVI's missionary intention for this month:

That the Holy Spirit may give light and strength to those in many regions of the world who are persecuted and discriminated against because of the Gospel.

The Holy Father's general intention is for Latin American nations:

That the nations of Latin America may walk in fidelity to the Gospel and progress in justice and peace.

- CNS Photo/Paul Haring