Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Monday, January 23 is the infamous day of the Supreme Court vs. Wade decision legalizing abortions in the United States. In the new Roman Missal the heading for the Mass to be said on this day is now called “Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children.” We are asked to do penance for violations to the dignity of all human persons, from the beginning of life in the womb to the natural end of life.
Respect for human life flows from the dignity that each of us has because we are made in the image and likeness of God. To respect life in all its forms is to honor ands respect the Creator of life! And thus we as Catholic Christians must abhor all forms of physical, emotional, and spiritual violence. If we abhor abortion for the sin against an unborn child, then we must also abhor the death penalty. We must protest the terrible acts of violence against women and children throughout the world in many struggling nations and the sexual exploitation of any person.
Respect for Life honors the presence of God in every human being, from beginning to end of life. We cannot pick and choose which part of that continuum we abhor. And we are called to respect and honor life in ways that bestow dignity to all people. We can never be violent in our opposition to a crime or action or judge another person and condemn them. Ours is to bring the mercy and gentleness and love of a gracious God who loves all His creatures. Let our love overcome the violence. Let our respect for life overcome the deaths of abortion. Let our compassion overcome the failings and misguided actions. Evil cannot triumph in the face of overwhelming love.
May we honor God’s beautiful presence in each other and respect life from its conception in the womb to its natural death. Be so grateful for the precious gift of life!
Gratefully,
Fr. Pat., CSSR
