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 two:
Intercession: May those near the end of their lives receive medical care that respects their dignity and protects their lives.
Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection: In today’s Gospel reading (Jn 1:35-42),* John the Baptist testifies that Jesus is “the Lamb of God.” How often do we meditate on Jesus as the Lamb and our salvation? There is nothing we could ever accomplish on our own that could make up for our daily failures to love others with the merciful and sacrificial love of Christ. But in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, he forgives our faults, wipes the stain of sin from our souls and gives us the strength to begin anew with the help of his grace. Let us live each day in gratitude for the mercy God shows us!
Acts of Reparation (choose one):
- Take time to write a handwritten note to someone who is lonely or needing encouragement.
- Read about the life of a modern (19th or 20th century) saint. You might be surprised by how much you have in common with them.
- Go to bed a little early tonight, and spend some time talking and listening to God.
Various types of advance medical directives raise some concerns you should be aware of as you consider your health care options. Find out what they are in “Advance Medical Directives: Planning for Your Future.” (Visit www.bit.ly/AdvanceMedicalDirectives to access the full article).
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*NABRE © 2010 CCD. Used with permission.
Click here to go to the USCCB site for this novena.
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