The nation has seen a huge increase in the number of deaths through gun violence. During the summer of 2022, the diocese held a forty-day vigil to end gun violence. St Mary’s Catholic Church in Fairfield is still leading the efforts to end gun violence.
 
On Friday, Dec. 30, St. Mary’s held an ecumenical prayer service on gun violence. Scripture reflections were given by Daniel McCormick of the Diocesan Office of Religious Education, Rev. Dr. P. Banneker Hatcherson of 23rd St. Missionary Baptist Church, Deacon Carolyn Foster of Greater Birmingham Ministry, Chaplain Leon Parker of Miles College, Deacon Peter Smith of St. Mary, and Father Philip Paxton, pastor of Holy Family Catholic Church and St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Words of encouragement were given by Sheriff Mark Pettway.