Pray, Write, March for Life
Since the tragic 1972 decision of Roe vs. Wade, which legalized abortion in our county, Catholics and many from other religious traditions have worked tirelessly to overturn this ruling by the Supreme Court. This year, thousands will gather again in state capitals and in Washington to give witness to the truth that every human life, from the moment of conception to natural death, is to be protected and treated with respect and dignity.
The Church has taught since the first century that abortion is a grave evil. The Church’s Magisterium explains why when it tells us that from the moment of conception, the life of every human being is to be respected in an absolute way, because humans are the only creatures on earth that God has ‘wished for Himself’ and the spiritual soul of each human being is ‘immediately created’ by God. A human’s whole being bears the image of the Creator. (Instruction on Respect for Human Life in Its Origin, #5)
His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, referring to the Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World, said, “Believers in Christ must defend and promote this right [to have the sacred value of human life respected to the highest degree]. Upon the recognition of this right, every human community and the political community itself are founded.” (Gospel of Life, #2)
In the name of this right, we pray both as individuals and as communities of faith, and we give witness by writing to our legislators and marching. The combination of prayer and non-violent action is our most effective weapon in the battle for life for the most innocent and precious among us: the unborn.
Perhaps you have never participated in a Pro-Life event. I encourage you to consider participating this year. Never underestimate the power of your prayer. It is our most powerful resource in the name of all that is good and holy. Consider writing one of your legislators, either in Raleigh and/or in Washington, to express your disdain for the current legislation that permits abortions without restriction in our state and/or country. Consider marching for the cause of the unborn and all of life. I will be participating in the Rally for Life in Raleigh on January 13 and in the March for Life in Washington on Monday, January 22. At 10:30 am on that day, I will also celebrate Mass with Bishop Peter Jugis of Charlotte at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, for all the faithful of Raleigh and Charlotte gathered in Washington. It would be most edifying if the Catholics of the Diocese of Raleigh were out in force on these days giving witness to our belief in the sanctity of all life.
Through the intercession of Mary, our Mother, may our Lord Jesus aid us in our efforts for all of life, especially the unborn.
Note: The bishop will also participate, along with more than 100 other bishops and thousands of the faithful, in the Vigil Mass at the National Shrine on Sunday evening, Jan. 21, at 8 pm.
Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge