REMEMBERING ROE V. WADE (FATHER’S FAITH NOTES: JANUARY 23, 2022)
This Saturday marks the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the solemn annual reminder of the ongoing struggle to ensure that all people in our nation enjoy the most fundamental right, the right to life itself. As has often been noted, we are a nation founded on high ideals that also still struggles to live up to those same ideals. Chief among these is the right to life. As Christians, we believe deeply in the truth that this right comes from our Creator who knew us before we were formed in our mother’s womb (Jeremiah 1:5), who Himself breathes life into every human being, regardless of the circumstances of their conception, and who alone has the absolute right to determine the length of our days.
We know as a matter of natural reason, and also by our faith, that the laws of any country are only valid, binding, and good when they are aligned with the law of God and of nature. Legalized abortion is contrary to both and the continued maintenance of such a law flies in the face of our society’s claims to pursue justice and the common good.
Though we pray with renewed hope this year that Roe v. Wade may be overturned, we also know that changing the law is not the only or even most essential goal for which we must pray. Rather, it is the conversion of hearts such that, beyond even what is demanded by the law, we will build up a society that respects and upholds the dignity of all human life as a matter of conviction, not only of legal right. We also pray, perhaps above all, for mercy and reconciliation – for our society, for those who work to promote abortion, and for those who are suffering the hurt and regret of having had an abortion. To this end, we preach not only truth but mercy – that God in His love wants above all to offer healing, peace, and reconciliation to each and to all who will seek it.
This weekend, please join me in praying for this intention. Please join us also next Friday,
January 28th for a Holy Hour for Life from 6-7pm in the Church.
Have a blessed week,
Fr. Michael
If you or someone you know is suffering as the result of an abortion, the Church is here to help. Visit https://hopeafterabortion.com/ for resources and support.