in this issue:
activism: BLACK CATHOLICS FOR LIFE / RACHEL’S VINEYARD
reflection for prayer: ST. CAJETAN, PRIEST
activism
BLACK CATHOLICS FOR LIFE: The National Black Catholic Apostolate for Life is inviting Black Catholics for Life to celebrate the national holiday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., by witnessing his commitment to non-violence and the dignity and respect for all human life. For details on the series of activities planned for the week of January 20, see Black Catholics for Life or contact the group by .
RACHEL’S VINEYARD: In the next few days, most newspapers will print articles about abortion. Some of those articles will mention possible emotional complications. Leslie Graves is a volunteer with ALL’s Rachel’s Vineyardproject. She suggests that any such article is an excellent opportunity for you to write a letter to the editor of that paper, to let their readers know that help is available for those who suffer after abortion.
According to Leslie, “whether the article mentions emotional complications of abortion in a way that acknowledges that reality, or mentions it only to claim that there are no such complications, the newspaper editor will very likely be willing to publish a letter from you about this. Almost all newspapers have web sites where you can easily find an e-mail address that the newspaper uses for letters to the editor.”
Leslie also says, “If you write this letter, you would be doing a great kindness to someone who suffers and doesn’t know that help is available.” Here is a possible letter.
Dear Editor,
Thank you for publishing [title of article], which mentions the emotional aftermath of abortion.
As adults gain experience, our ability to engage in deeper moral reflection increases. Sometimes, men and women who have had one or more abortions come to conclude that a human life was lost. Sometimes that happens unexpectedly and years later, perhaps when an ultrasound is seen for the first time.
This can cause very painful emotions. Some wonderful support groups exist to help with this, including Rachel’s Vineyard, whose national hotline is 877-HOPE-4-ME.
reflection for prayer
ST. CAJETAN, PRIEST: I am a sinner and do not think much of myself; I have recourse to the greatest servants of the Lord, that they may pray for you to the blessed Christ and his Mother. But do not forget that all the saints cannot endear you to Christ as much as you can yourself. It is entirely up to you. If you want Christ to love you and help you, you must love Him and always make an effort to please Him. Do not waver in your purpose, because even if all the saints and every single creature should abandon you, He will always be near you, whatever your needs.