The shrine was a symbol of hope for many Hispanic Catholics

“Changing the law would threaten the integrity and independence of houses of worship,” reads the letter faith leaders sent to protect church-state separation.

To say that Hispanics in the diocese take pride in their newly appointed bishop is an understatement.

He said the West ignores Syrian and Iraqi Christians because they are neither oil-rich nor a terrorist threat.

The Journey of Hope Conference for Divorced Recovery held Aug. 4-6 in the Diocese of Charleston created a setting for people to experience hope, healing and mercy.

“Religious persecution and intolerance remains far too prevalent,” Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said.