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 seven:
Intercession: For an end to the use of the death penalty in our country.
Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection: As Catholics, we believe and put our hope in a merciful and loving God. We are conscious of our own brokenness and need for redemption. Our Lord calls us to imitate him more perfectly by witnessing to the inherent dignity of every human being, including those whose actions have been despicable. Our faith and hope is in the mercy of God who says to us, "Blessed are the merciful for they shall be shown mercy (Mt 5:7)* and, "I desire mercy, not sacrifices" (Mt 9:13)*. As Christians we are called to oppose the culture of death by witnessing to something greater and more perfect: a gospel of life, hope and mercy.
Acts of Reparation (choose one):
- Clean a room in your house without being asked or without telling anyone. Pray for your family members while you clean, “and your Father who sees in secret will repay you” (Matthew 6:6).
- Read about a Church teaching you don’t understand in the Catechism.
- Make an honest assessment of your “giving finances” –are you giving too little? Make a resolution to give a set weekly or monthly donation to your parish or favorite local charity.
*NABRE © 2010 CCD. Used with permission.
Click here to go to the USCCB novena site.
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