The Arizona Diamondbacks will host a “Catholic Night” this evening at Chase Field. This is the first of its kind in Arizona, or in any other baseball park.
Last year, Catholics, and those from other faith communities, turned out in big numbers to attend the first “Faith and Family Night” game; another one was held last month. But the one tonight is different: it is a joint effort of the Diamondbacks and the Diocese of Phoenix. The home team is hosting the Houston Astros.
There are four levels of tickets, ranging from $24 to $46. The Diamondbacks have pledged $5 of each ticket will go to the diocese’s “Catholic School Support 365” program. It provides funding for Catholic families who need assistance to pay tuition due to a hardship situation—medical emergencies, lost jobs, death of a parent or sibling—allowing them to grow in their Catholic faith.
In June, we led a culture war against the Los Angeles Dodgers for honoring a vile anti-Catholic gay group, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. The message was delivered to Major League Baseball—Catholics are fed up being insulted by the elites. That is why events like “Catholic Night” are welcomed. It is a stark rebuke to religious bigots.
Congratulations to the Arizona Diamondbacks and to Bishop John Dolan of the Diocese of Phoenix. We hope other teams follow suit.
Contact Garrett King, who is responsible for managing this event for the team: gking@dbacks.com
Contact Brett Meister, Phoenix Diocese director of communications: bmeister@dphx.org
