October 14, 2011
Bishop challenges prayer participants to work for Culture of Life
Bishop Charles C. Thompson listens to Harry Anslinger during a reception following the Culture of Life prayer service, as Mary Kay Lehman looks on. (Message photo courtesy Emily Snipes) Click for a larger version.
By EMILY SNIPES (Diocesan Pro-Life Coordinator)
What started as a group of individuals who were concerned after hearing Abby Johnson speak at the local Right to Life banquet in April 2010, quickly turned into a small group who began meeting each month to pray for the protection of the unborn. Deacon Charlie Koressel has been working closely with other pro-life supporters to plan a service each month, taking the initiative to provide an opportunity he says to “pray that lives be saved and hearts be changed.”
On the first Wednesday of each month this same group now formally meets for Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Benediction and Adoration at Holy Trinity Church in Evansville. A guest is invited to speak on a pro-life topic at each service and on Wednesday, Oct. 5, Bishop Charles C. Thompson gave a reflection regarding Respect Life month, which the Catholic Church has observed for 40 years.
The bishop addressed those in attendance by stating, “This month is not a month we look to shame or wilt others. We give thanks. If we are truly Eucharistic centered people, we will approach those with differing views with a grateful heart.”
He went on to quote Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, chairman of the Committee on Pro-Life Activities with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, highlighting the threats our nation and our Catholic Church face. “He believes that we must be active in our efforts through education, public advocacy, and above all prayer.”
Bishop Thompson emphasized the recently released introductory note to the Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship document by the U.S. bishops, which specifically lists six fundamental issues. These include the opposition to intrinsic evils and other serious moral questions that Catholics should evaluate when forming their conscience. He specifically mentioned the devastating effects of unemployment and immigration in relation to the family unit.
“The Catholic Church is not made up of a bunch of individuals. We are the body of Christ first and foremost. We must act as the body of Christ. The challenge is how we do this in the name of the Church,” the bishop told the audience.
He concentrated on the seven key principals of Catholic Social Teaching offering personal insight on each as it pertains to our Catholic faith in action. “I encourage you to step back from a personal agenda and see the world as God sees it,” he advised.
- Life and Dignity of the Human Person — “You cannot be anti-something, it is not credible. From conception until natural death, we believe each life is created in the image of God, no matter the situation or circumstances.”
- Call to Family, Community and Participation — “We are the most credible when we act as a body and participate as such.”
- Rights and Responsibilities — “Often we are concerned about our rights and the Church reminds us with every right there is a corresponding responsibility.”
- Option for the Poor and Vulnerable — “Any activity we do as a body is ultimately measured by how the most vulnerable are treated.”
- The Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers — “It’s not only a lack of funds; it’s a lack of dignity. Our value is not in what we do, but in who we are and how we respond to each other.”
- Solidarity — “We must be united with the same attitude and mind set. Remember we are setting the example for our children to follow.”
- Care of God’s Creation — “We must be aware of what we are passing on to our children and grandchildren. Are we good stewards of what we have?”
To tie together the reflection, he ended with a story about a priest who worked with the homeless, drug addicts, prostitutes and others in despair. The bishop recounted that a journalist once stated she was amazed after all the situations this priest had found himself in, including being robbed, that he could still see Christ in those he ministered to. The priest responded to her, “I never said I find Christ in every one of those people. Whether I do or not does not absolve me from bringing Christ or being Christ to them.”
With just over 100 in attendance, participants walked away feeling challenged to examine how they are a living witness for the Church.
Maria Janney, a parishioner from St. John the Baptist Church in Newburgh, stated, “One of the things that stuck out to me is how the bishop reminded those on the pro-life side how they must always approach those on the opposing side. He explained there is no sin that is bigger than God’s mercy.”
The Culture of Life Prayer Service is held the first Wednesday of each month at Holy Trinity Church in Evansville from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Central time.
Related: 2011 Respect Life Celebration