September 30, 2007
If you are unaware, let me inform you now that a Planned Parenthood Office has opened in the vicinity of our Church and School. In addition, we have learned that the Catholic Bishops of New Jersey are calling Catholics throughout the state to vote against the referendum on November’s ballot to use state funds to finance Stem Cell Research that would include embryonic stem cells. Furthermore, the state is presently involved in a moratorium on Capital Punishment. Along with other ongoing and important life issues, these are critical issues in the struggle to deter all attacks on the dignity and sacredness of human life. Our Christian faith calls upon us to protect and defend the seamless garment of life.
After consultation with our Parish Pastoral Staff and our Social Justice/Respect Life Committee, I have decided that we as a parish must take tangible, visible and effective action in response to these life threatening developments. Therefore, beginning on the First Friday of October, October 5, 2007, we will initiate a program of Eucharistic Devotion and Fasting for Life. Unlike other programs, this will not be a short term approach but rather an ongoing effort to raise awareness and provide individuals with the most effective means at our disposal to change hearts – the power of prayer and sacrifice. The Social Justice/ Respect Life committee is also planning to continue its annual educational activities along with a Day of Eucharistic Adoration in October. (You will hear more about these activities in the weeks ahead.)
Therefore we ask all members of the parish to find time each First Friday to make a prayerful visit to the Blessed Sacrament in our Chapel during exposition from after the 8:30 AM Mass until Benediction at 7:30 PM. We also ask that you make each First Friday a day of fast, as you see fit and appropriate for your lifestyle.
Although all will not agree with our parish response, this will be a strong and clear sign of our commitment to the sacredness of human life. There were other options before us in determining our response to these issues, but as a parish it would be imprudent to support any program for which we or the diocese do not have ultimate responsibility. Needless to say, individuals are free to respond as they so choose.
Please join us in this critical effort for Life.
In prayer for Life,
Fr. Ed
