How do we answer questions our family, friends, co-workers may pose to us on the issues of life? “Catholicism Live!” on July 7th will give you answers and resources to help you! Pope John Paul II said, “all human life is sacred, for it is created in the image and likeness of God.” The Church’s mission to defend human life applies over the entire course of life, from conception to natural death.
For additional information on LIFE – ABORTION – and resources: San Antonio Coalition for Life at www.sacfl.org or call them at 210-737-2235.
Also look at PROJECT RACHEL – a confidential program for spiritual and emotional healing after abortion. 210-342-HOPE or 1-800-651-HOPE.
PEARL OF THE WEEK - For a tri-fold pamphlet that easily expresses the beauty of life and dignity of the human person titled “WHY YOU MATTER”: http://www.usccb.org/prolife/programs/rlp/2009/bartunekpamphlet.pdf
SAINT OF THE WEEK - St. Maria Goretti (1890-1902). * Feast Day is July 6th. She is patron of youth, young women, purity and victims of rape. Maria refused to submit to an attack on her virginity by 20 year old Alessandro Serenelli. Not yet 12 years old, she shouted, “No, it’s a sin! I will not do it!” So Alessandro stabbed her to death. Maria forgave him and became a saint because she loved God above all else. It was, and is, Love’s Bravest Choice.
The beautiful message of purity and forgiveness demonstrated by St. Maria inspires people of all ages, and in any place or time, because it is an ageless story of rare and heroic courage.
Read more about this young saint; www.mariagoretti.org.
| Official Prayer to St. Maria GorettiOh Saint Maria Goretti who, strengthened by God’s grace, did not hesitate even at the age of twelve to shed your blood and sacrifice life itself to defend your virginal purity, look graciously on the unhappy human race which has strayed far from the path of eternal salvation. Teach us all, and especially youth,with what courage and promptitude we should flee for the love of Jesus anything that could offend Him or stain our souls with sin. Obtain for us from our Lord victory in temptation, comfort in the sorrows of life, and the grace which we earnestly beg of thee (here insert intention), and may we one day enjoy with thee the imperishable glory of Heaven. Amen. | |
