This weekend we celebrate Respect Life Sunday, sponsored by the Bishops’ Committee for Pro-Life Activities. The observance emphasizes concern for all human life, especially that of the unborn, the elderly, persons with disabilities, the terminally ill, and others whose lives are easily threatened.
Twenty-five years ago, Pope St. John Paul II wrote that the Gospel of life is at the heart of Jesus’ saving message to the world (Evangelium vitae 1). In taking on human flesh, dwelling among us, and sacrificing his very life for our redemption, Christ reveals the profound dignity of every human person. Jesus calls each of us to “care for the other as a person for whom God has made us responsible” (EV 87). The Gospel of life is intrinsic to the whole Christian life and foundational to the decisions we make on a daily basis. For, “the Gospel of God’s love for man, the Gospel of the dignity of the person and the Gospel of life are a single and indivisible Gospel” (EV 2).
Let us reflect on how we personally live out the Gospel: Do I help pregnant and parenting mothers in need? If a friend became pregnant in challenging circumstances, would she know she could come to me for loving support for her and her baby? Do I know of the places in my community where she could receive material help if she needed it?
Through the intercession of Our Lady of the Rosary, may Our Lord grant us the grace to truly and courageously live his Gospel of life.