Prayers

Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

Reflection

During this Christmas season (which extends through January 12 this year), we continue to celebrate the incarnation of our Savior Jesus Christ and the great joy and hope that His birth brings to us all.  While each child brings untold joy into the world, a mother facing an unexpected pregnancy may find it difficult to receive the great gift God has given her. Concerns about a lack of material and financial resources, as well as minimal or non-existent physical and emotional support systems, can crowd minds and hearts. Fear and anxiety may push women to believe that abortion is their only option. But abortion is never the answer. Women deserve so much better.  During challenging periods in our lives, we all need the care and support of others to help us place our trust in God. For a woman who is pregnant amid difficult circumstances, the real, tangible support of others can help her see a way forward. Knowing she is not alone may help her to open her heart to God’s plan and choose life for her child. Remembering the Christ Child in the manger, let us ask ourselves what our role is in helping moms in need.

Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)

• Commit to participating in 9 Days for Life (respectlife.org/9-days-for-life). This annual, nationwide novena for the protection of human life takes place January 21-29, 2020.
• Attend a parish or diocesan observance of the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children or another local or regional pro-life event. If you don’t know of anything nearby, ask your parish or diocese about local observances of the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, or visit marchforlife.org/state-marches-near-you/. 
• Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for this month’s intention.

One Step Further

Help spread the word about 9 Days for Life by inviting friends, family members, colleagues, and fellow parishioners to join you in praying for the protection of human life. You can sign up at 9daysforlife.com, and then invite them to do the same. 
Consider posting on social media using the hashtag #9daysforlife and tagging friends to “challenge” them to pray along with you for 9 days. (Shareable graphics are available!)

Did You Know? 

In the Catholic Church in the United States, January 22nd is designated as a particular day of prayer and penance, called the “Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children” (respectlife.org/january-22). As Catholics, we are called to observe this day through the penitential practices of prayer, fasting, and/or giving alms.