On January 22 our nation will mark the 42nd anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court decision that made abortion legal throughout the U.S. Since that tragic decision, more than 56 million children's lives have been lost to abortion, and many suffer that loss -- often in silence. The USCCB invites us to join thousands of Catholics across the country coming together in prayer for a "culture of life" from January 17-25. Here's day four:
Intercession: May children awaiting adoption be welcomed into loving families.
Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection: Let us reflect on today’s reading from Hebrews (6:10-20)*, which reminds us to “hold fast to the hope that lies before us. This we have as an anchor of the soul, sure and firm” (Heb 6:18-19)*. We pray that children awaiting adoption would be filled with the hope of Christ and “the peace of God that surpasses all understanding” (Phil 4:7)*. We also remember that, we too, can cling fast to this anchor of hope, for we have received “a spirit of adoption, through which we cry, ‘Abba, Father!’” (Rom 8:15)*. May our loving Father envelop each of us in His love today and open our eyes in faith, that we may see and rejoice in it.
Acts of Reparation (choose one):
- Make an act of faith, hope or love. (www.bit.ly/9DaysFaithHopeLove)
- Today, ignore your sweet tooth. Make healthy eating choices.
- Make a “quiet hour” today, turning off all electronic devices (cell phone, iPod, computer, television, radio, video game system), and retreat to your room. Spend some time in prayer or prayerful reading.
In “An Adoption Love Story,” Jenny** shares her and her husband’s story of adopting their son, Andrew.** Read about some of the challenges, concerns, and joys on their journey at www.bit.ly/AdoptionLoveStory. **Names changed for privacy
*NABRE © 2010 CCD. Used with permission.
Click here to go to the USCCB site for this novena.
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