On March 9, 2011, Archbishop Gregory Aymond launched the New Battle of New Orleans, a campaign to fight violence, murder and racism through prayer and action. Our Family Prayer, the first step of the initiative, is recited at every weekend mass in the Archdiocese of New Orleans. In it, we ask God to give us the wisdom to “build a community founded on the values of Jesus, which gives respect to the life and dignity of all people.”

God calls us to action as well as prayer. As the second step of this initiative, Archbishop Aymond authorized Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans to develop a parenting and mentoring program, which is an archdiocesan effort.

The program, called Isaiah 43, addresses the needs of vulnerable families and young people in need of support and guidance. Our parenting and mentoring programs use proven methods to work toward a culture that respects human life and teaches each person to respect him or herself and treat others with dignity.