A Call for the Faithful to Unite in Spiritual Warfare

January 14, 2022
Updated February 7, 2022

We are aware that there is conflicting information being spread on social media and websites regarding the Diocese’s stance on the Satanic Conference that will take place in Scottsdale next weekend.

Bishop Olmsted reiterates his desire that we refrain from participating in any public demonstration or protest. He continues to invite the faithful to unite in spiritual warfare through prayer, fasting and participation in the Sacraments. These are the most effective spiritual weapons against Satan’s futile attempt at sowing division and confusion in our midst.

As St. Paul reminds the early Christians of Ephesus, “Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil. For our struggle is not with flesh and blood but with the principalities, with the powers, with the world rulers of this present darkness, with the evil spirits in the heavens” (Ephesians 6:11-12). This is why our main weapons against Satan are prayer and fasting, rather than works against human beings.

Please join Bishop Olmsted in increased prayer and sacrifice in the following concrete ways:

  • Attend public Eucharistic adoration opportunities at your parish
  • Pray novenas and prayers to the Blessed Virgin and the Saints, especially the Prayer of St. Michael after Masses
  • Increase your efforts to attend weekday Masses
  • Fast
  • Make sacrifices of reparation for sinners

Community acts of reparation:

  • The Catholic Men’s Fellowship of Phoenix Men’s Conference will begin with adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and prayers of reparation led by Bishop Olmsted. Men can register here to attend.
  • Join Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Scottsdale, for a Holy Hour beginning at 3 p.m. on February 9, 10, and 11. The parish community will pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, the Holy Rosary, the prayer to St. Michael, and spend time in quiet adoration before the Lord.
  • Join Holy Cross, Mesa, for Stations of the Cross on January 28, February 4, and February 11 beginning at 6 p.m. and followed by adoration of the Blessed Sacrament to make reparation to the Sacred Heart.