October 1, 2006

    One of the most beautiful miracles any of us have experienced is the birth of a child.  New parents are always amazed at the beauty of the child they have given life to.  Relatives and friends never fail to come together to celebrate this new life.  Parties and gifts are certainly in order for these occasions. 

    Sadly enough, there are some children who are not brought to term.  The miracle of life is not experienced and celebration does not occur.  There are also times when children are brought into the world but their lives are not respected as a gift from their Creator.  These children are neglected and/or abused.  This is a very sad situation especially when it is allowed to happen within a Christian environment.

    For the last 34 years, the first Sunday of October has been designated as Respect Life Sunday.  The Respect Life Program began through the efforts of the Catholic bishops of the U.S. in October of 1972.  and continues to foster a culture of respect for all life. That year, and each succeeding year, the bishops have focused on many critical concerns of the day - abortion, euthanasia, marriage and family life, capital punishment, poverty, immigration issues, chastity, natural family planning, post-abortion healing and reconciliation, the culture of life, biotechnology, children, teens, persons with disabilities, the elderly, those who are dying, and more. 

    As Catholics we have the responsibility to take the gift of life seriously.  We hear a great deal about abortion but there are many other situations that exist that are often just as important and in need of our attention.  This is not an option for Catholics, it is a responsibility.  We cannot turn our backs of those who need us most.

    The Respect Life Program has developed an educational component that is available to the public at large online.  In addition, every article that has appeared in the Respect Life Program from 1972 - 2002 has been compiled on a CD-ROM for easy access.  This is a resource to have at your fingertips.  It is fully indexed. Item #0212.  The cost is $9.95.     

    As we begin a new year of Respect Life activities, let us take a little time to reflect on where we stand in relation to the issues.  Let us ask ourselves how we feel about certain issues and why we feel so strongly.  Are there areas of the program that do not agree with our sensibilities?  Why?  Perhaps a visit to the articles mentioned above would enable us to deepen our understanding and committment to this program.

        Let’s Celebrate Life This Year - Our Own and The Lives of All!

                                    Lorette P. Nault