Dear Friends for Life,
Fiat Mihi!
On the Feast of the Annunciation, March 25, we ponder these humble words of the Blessed Virgin Mary that changed the course of humanity. When the Angel Gabriel announced she was with child, these words were confusing to this young, unmarried woman of modest means: “How can this be?” (Lk1:34) But, full of grace, she answered “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.”
(Lk 1:38)
Her “Yes!” was a complete surrender to God’s will—and not merely to the uncertainty of an unplanned pregnancy, but to all she was foretold in the Angel’s message and later punctuated in Simeon’s prophecy that a sword would pierce her heart. (Lk 2:35) That consent to God’ will brought salvation to mankind.
Read complete letter
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On February 22, 2020 the Pro Bikers for Life began their 40 Days for Life campaign in Hempstead with Holy Mass at St. Ladislaus. The Mass was celebrated by Fr. Liam McDonald and con celebrated by Pastor, Fr. Mariusz Gorazd, Co Chancellor and Secretary to Bishop Barres Fr. John McCartney, Fr Michael Reid and Fr Fidelis cfr.
The Missionary Image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Protectress of the Unborn and the Americas accompanied us at the opening Mass for 40 Days for Life and Procession to Planned Parenthood. It was truly a blessed event.
Thanks you Pro Bikers for Life for your tireless efforts to protect the unborn, and their mothers and fathers.
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40 Days for Life in Smithtown
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All went wonderfully with many parishes that participated in the campaign. We thank Paul Rorke and Marie Baron and the team in Smithtown. See the photos of those in front of Planned Parenthood, praying for the end of abortion, protection of the unborn, conversion of mothers, fathers, and workers in the clinic, healing for those wounded by abortion.
The bitter cold did not stop us from trying to protect the babies pray for The Unborn and their moms. 40 Days for Life in Smithtown. Thank you for your Yes to the Lord of Life!
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Lives continue to be saved and helped by the presence of Prayer Warriors and Sidewalk Counselors who are participating in the 40 Days for Life campaign.
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“The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)
In a world that is increasingly growing dim, we need the light of Christ to burn bright in our hearts, in our homes, and in our communities. Allow nothing to steal away your joy, beloved one, because this world needs your light. Go, and be that light to someone today.
A Prayer Warrior noticed a car occupied by two young females that was going into the driveway entrance of Planned Parenthood but observed the Prayer Warriors and quickly parked their car on the street in front of Planned Parenthood. They intently looked at the Prayer Warriors praying in front of Planned Parenthood. (Pro Life signs were also on display.) After a short time, the women drove away. Only God knows for sure, but the presence of the Prayer Warriors seem to impact their decision not to go into Planned Parenthood.
“About 10 of us were just starting the rosary when I saw a van slow down as it approached us. I saw it was a woman driving with a girl in the front seat who is maybe 10 or 11 years old.
The driver was obviously driving very slowly for some reason so I walked toward the car, expecting to ask her if we could help her. She rolled down the window and said, "It's so great that you're here! I just wanted to show my daughter and explain what you good people are doing here. A few of us were holding "Pray to End Abortion" signs and we all had rosary beads. The girl was just looking at all of us. The mom continued, "I want my daughter to know that good people really care and they come here to pray and to help people." I said to the girl what a great mom she has, and invited the mother to come join us any Friday 11-12.
It was great to realize we helped educate a young girl about abortion.”
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40 DAYS FOR LIFE Cancelled due to COVID 19 coronavirus
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It's with a heavy heart that I have decided to end the public vigil portion of the spring 40 Days for Life campaign effective immediately due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
For the remainder of the campaign, we will continue the daily emails on what has happened this campaign.
During the remaining days of the campaign, we will unite in prayer, fasting, and spiritual union to pray for an end to abortion and this pandemic.
This was the toughest decision I've made serving as President & CEO of this lifesaving movement, but I feel it is the right one. Since we did the first campaign back in 2004, I have visited over 530 vigil locations, and the safety of your family during a campaign is and will always be my number one priority.
Shawn Carney
President/CEO 40 Days for Life
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Missionary Image of Our Lady of Guadalupe Visits Long Island
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Our Lady of Guadalupe began at the Heart of Our Diocese at St. Agnes Cathedral. On February 21st she was at all the Masses and then came to the Pastoral Center for a visit. Bishop Barres, Fr. McCartney, Fr. Sheridan and Dr. Lisa Honkanen welcomed her to begin the important Mission here in our Diocese.
It is truly God’s providence that she was able to visit so many places in our Diocese before this pandemic began.
Blessed Mother shelter us under your mantle of protection and accompany us each day during this trial, our Lenten desert and sacrifice.
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Spanish Community Welcomes Our Lady
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Assistant Director Donna Crean shared with the Spanish Community at Church of the Resurrection in Farmingville.
The Holy Eucharist, Rosary and Holy Hour all offered for the 40 Days for Life. Blessed be God and thank you Our Lady of Guadalupe for your faithfulness and love.
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Offering Ourselves for the Protection of All Life……. Victimhood!
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May these words of the Holy Spirit spoken through Fr Rob Ketcham touch our hearts and souls to become victims offering our lives for all Life to Jesus who is Our LIFE.
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BEGIN TO PARTICIPATE IN THE YEAR OF SERVICE IN PRAYER
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A PRAYER FOR PREGNANT MOTHERS
O Blessed Mother, you received the good news of the Incarnation of Christ, your Son, with faith and trust. Grant your protection to all pregnant mothers facing difficulties.
Guide us as we strive to make our parish communities places of welcome and assistance for mothers in need. Help us become instruments of God’s love and compassion.
Mary, Mother of the Church, graciously help us build a culture of life and a civilization of love, together with all people of good will, to the praise and glory of God, the Creator and lover of life.
Amen.
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See below for a list of current issues for you to learn more and to take action.
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See below for a list of current issues for you to learn more and to take action.
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Suicide is never the solution to a problem whether one has a terminal condition or not. It is a sign something is wrong: untreated depression, fear, loneliness, new functional disabilities, etc. We wouldn’t push someone ready to jump off a bridge, so why would we honor the request of someone for help to end his life just because he has been given a terminal diagnosis?
When life is challenging, we need to walk with that person and share in his suffering -- that is true compassion -- for we are called to love one another, not abandon the other in his greatest time of need. In stark contrast, Assisted Suicide denies our most human need to love and be loved. Listen to Luke’s story and see why.
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You don’t discourage suicide by assisting suicide. “Every suicide is tragic – whether you’re old or young, healthy or sick, your life is worth living,” says
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POST-ABORTION MINISTRY
Project Rachel Hope After Abortion
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Do you know someone who is suffering abortion loss? Project Rachel is a ministry about finding hope and healing after abortion.
For more information, visit the Project Rachel Hope
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Next Opportunity for Prayer and Healing
Day of Prayer and Healing for Women
Saturday, April 25, 2020
All reservations and information will remain confidential.
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Project Rachel Director Orientation Training
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On February 18-21, 2020, Program Coordinator, Donna Crean, and Counselor Linda Reich attended the USCCB training for Project Rachel Directors. It was very informative and fruitful and will help us to expand our Diocesan Project Rachel Ministry.
We look forward to developing our current Healing Programs to expand our Days of Healing offering in addition a retreat model of healing.
We will have an emphasis not only on women, but will incorporate a healing program for men, who have been wounded by the trauma of abortion. We look to grow our outreach to the Hispanic Community in our Diocese who are also in need of God’s love, mercy and forgiveness.
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Mary McClusky, Assistant Director for Project Rachel Ministry Development, USCCB, Linda Reich, Counselor DRVC, Donna Crean, Program Coordinator DRVC, Tom Grenchik, Executive Director, Pro-Life USCCB
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Gianna Center of Long Island
Women's Health & Fertility
Comprehensive, Cooperative: A Unique New Approach to Women's Health and Wellness
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The Gianna Center of Long Island for Women’s Health & Fertility offers an exciting approach to women’s health care. For more information: 1 (855) 301-4CHS or visit
chsli.org/pregnancy-support-services
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Gabriel's Courage
Catholic Health Services
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Support, information & encouragement for carrying your baby to term with an adverse prenatal diagnosis. There are few things more frightening in life than finding out your baby may not be healthy. The fear of the unknown and the pressure to terminate can be intense. You are not alone.
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Perinatal Mood Disorders
Catholic Health Services
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Supporting mothers who are coping with depression or anxiety during pregnancy or after the birth of her birth. Perinatal mood and anxiety disorder is the leading medical complication related to childbearing.
For more information contact
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Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!
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Lisa A. Honkanen
, M.D. – Director
Donna Crean
– Assistant Director/Program Coordinator
Patricia Fox
– Project Rachel Coordinator
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50 North Park Ave. Rockville Ctr., NY 11570
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Additional Informational Websites
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THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR CONTINUED MISSION TO SERVE LIFE!
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