RESPECT LIFE MONTH

                “Moved by Mercy we are called to show mercy because mercy has first been shown to us.” (Pope Francis)

                The month of October is the month each year designated as Respect Life Month by the USCCB. In 1972, the Bishops of the United States inaugurated a Respect Life Program that begins anew each October. The program promotes respect for human life in light of our intrinsic dignity as having been created in God’s image and likeness and called to an eternal destiny with him.

                In this Year of Mercy “we are called to protect our humanity, and this means, in the first place, accepting it and respecting it as it was created.” (Pope Francis) In the parable of the Good Samaritan, we are reminded that God never stops offering each of us his mercy and that like the Good Samaritan we should always treat each person with merciful love and respect that affirms the gift of his or her life.

                The Corporal Works of Mercy are found in the teachings of Jesus as a model for how we should treat all others, as if they were Christ in disguise. They are charitable actions by which we help our neighbors in their bodily needs. They respond to the basic needs of humanity.

                The Spiritual Works of Mercy have long been a part of the Christian tradition. Just as Jesus attended to the spiritual well-being of those he ministered to, these Spiritual Works of Mercy guide us to help our neighbor in their spiritual needs.

                The U.S. bishops are asking Catholics to mark Respect Life Month through prayer, education and advocacy. This is a vital opportunity for Catholics to spark a renewal of love and commitment to the true good of others. Jesus is with us every step of the way, giving us the grace we need. God invites us to embrace the lives we have been given, for as long as they are given.