Backing Archbishop Alexander Sample, Knights of Columbus state leaders helped organize the Holy Hour and here are shown praying in the front row at St. Mary Cathedral: Dave Judy, state warden; Bill Geary, state advocate; Bob Adams, state treasurer; Ken Anderson, state secretary; and Ray Prom, state deputy.
Backing Archbishop Alexander Sample, Knights of Columbus state leaders helped organize the Holy Hour and here are shown praying in the front row at St. Mary Cathedral: Dave Judy, state warden; Bill Geary, state advocate; Bob Adams, state treasurer; Ken Anderson, state secretary; and Ray Prom, state deputy.
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In a week when Catholic parishes all over Oregon set aside time to adore Jesus in the Eucharist, the Archdiocese of Portland’s flagship church hosted a Holy Hour with three special intentions.

During eucharistic devotions at St. Mary Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Northwest Portland Jan. 29, Archbishop Alexander Sample said intentions for the day were for the synodal process begun by Pope Francis, a deeper appreciation for the dignity of human life and a renewed spirit for parishes in the state.

This also is a period when the U.S. Catholic bishops are working to revive eucharistic belief.

In brief comments before long periods of silence before the Eucharist exposed in a monstrance, Archbishop Sample said synodality means a church walking together and discerning what the Holy Spirits is asking in this time and place.

He then asked people to pray that the U.S. Supreme Court will overturn Roe v. Wade, the 1973 riling that made abortion legal. He called that 49-year-old decision “tragic.”

Last, he urged all to pray for and be open to a reenergized faith life in Oregon, based on the model of the early Christians who stood up for their beliefs even when culture condemned them.

The congregation of about 60, plus hundreds online, said five Hail Marys for the protection of the unborn, for families in crisis and for the conversion of abortionists. Participants recited a prayer by St. Thomas More, which said in part, “Take from me, good Lord, this lukewarm fashion … and give me warmth, delight and quickness in thinking upon Thee.”

The Holy Hours were promoted and organized by the Knights of Columbus statewide. Each of the organization’s state leaders were present in the cathedral’s front row.

Later the same day, Archbishop Sample gave opening reflections and an invocation at the annual March for Life in Salem. See coverage of that soon.