Dear Friends for Life,
It has been a busy month to say the least: continued re-openings, political conventions, release of Bishop Barres’ newest pastoral letter, Evangelium Vitae: The Gospel of Life for Today, etc.
There is one item in particular, though, that has troubled me a great deal. “It is above my paygrade” was the response of the very educated Sister Simone Campbell, in a Catholic News Agency interview when she was asked if her organization, Network Lobby, opposes the legal protection of abortion. In other words, she was affirming her comments from an interview four years earlier when she declared “I don’t think it’s a good policy to outlaw abortion.” Is the intrinsic evil of abortion above anyone’s paygrade?
Granted, the question posed was slightly more nuanced, but even then, is the legitimacy of the legalization of abortion above anyone’s paygrade? Just a few thoughts:
- The medical science tells us that a new human life begins at fertilization and we can witness its beautiful unfolding with the technology available to us:
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Human development begins at fertilization, when a male gamete or sperm (spermatozoon) unites with a female gamete or oocyte (ovum) to form a single cell…the beginning of each of us as a unique individual. Read more
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+ PRAYER
“Pray without ceasing.” 1 Th. 5:17
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National Day of Remembrance for Aborted Children
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On Saturday, September 12th, Christ the King in Commack held a Mass to commemorate the National Day of Remembrance for Aborted Children. Father Rob Ketcham was the presider at the Mass. He gave a beautiful homily on the sanctity of human life and reflected that the salvation of the world started in the womb when Mary gave her Yes to God to carry Jesus in her womb.
After Mass, the congregation was invited to stand outside by the memorial for the unborn to say the Rosary and the Divine Mercy Chaplet. It was beautiful to see people of all ages join in this prayerful gathering to give honor to the babies that have died from abortion.
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The Extraordinary Worth of Human Life
By: Fr Joseph Habila, St Matthew's RCC, Dix Hills
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The story of creation in the book of Genesis tells us that when it was time to create human beings God had to change his language from singular to plural. From a language of one person to a language of a community of persons, the Blessed Trinity. "Then God said: Let US make human beings in OUR image, after OUR likeness. Let them have dominion..." (Genesis 1:26). No doubt human beings were to be superior, a little above other creatures. God even gave permission to human beings to "have dominion over" other creatures.
The change in God's language from singular to plural in creating human beings express implicitly the worth of human beings who have value in themselves as it is to be observed when God also mandated that human blood may not be shed (Genesis 9:6) for in the image of God have human beings been made. God's mandate to man to dominate, however, does not give human beings unlimited power but limited power. A power that is limited to other creatures with exception to a fellow human being, even shedding of blood of a fellow human being, which is believed to be the source of life. Read more
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Fr Joseph giving us all words of encouragement to continue the mission of LIFE! He will be joining us to pray every Monday at Planned Parenthood.
He says we must put our faith in action and will stand in solidarity and prayer with us!!! We love our priests.
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God Led Me Straight to the Capuchins
An interview from our Seminarian Patrick O’Brien with his good friend and our
Pro-life Warrior from Long Island, Brother Christopher Woods.
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We asked our brother Br. Christopher Woods, "Why Capuchin?"
1. Why did you choose to join the Capuchins?
Truly, God led me straight to the Capuchins! But I'd have to say that their fraternity & dedicated time for contemplative prayer every single day really sets them apart from other communities.
2. What aspect of our life attracted you to the Capuchin Province of St. Mary and why?
I'd say the fraternal love of the brothers made my heart fill with joy. Seeing the dedication and care that each brother shows for other brothers leaves a lasting impression and drew me in. There is true Christ-like love on display in our Friaries every day. Read more
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Evangelium Vitae:
THE GOSPEL OF LIFE FOR TODAY
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A Pastoral Letter from
Bishop John O. Barres
to the People of God of the
Diocese of Rockville Centre
September 8, 2020 – the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
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“Holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict.” Tit. 1:9 |
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As the last few days of summer splendor tempted many to relish one more weekend at the beach, fifty intrepid individuals convened at St. Agnes Cathedral in Rockville Centre on September 11 and 12 to dive into bioethics. Clergy and professionals in health care, social services, and education, hailing from as far as Houston, attended the “Catholic Health Care Ethics Seminar: A Tradition of Compassion and Care for the Human Person” presented by bioethicists from the National Catholic Bioethics Center (NCBC).
This was the first of what will be an annual event hosted by Catholic Health Services of Long Island and the Office of Human Life, Family and Bioethics of the Diocese of Rockville Centre. Whether novice or seasoned in their fields, all who came found what might have surprised them: bioethics is relevant and important for everyone. Read more
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We were so blessed to have Victoria Hamilton as a summer intern
in our office. We want to thank her for her valuable contribution in many ways, and especially with the video series “Teachable Tuesdays.”
They are formative, catechetical and delightful.
Please enjoy them on our website and also our social media.
Victoria shared her enthusiasm for Life and the teachings of the Church. Her living witness to the Gospel and of Christ’s love and Blessed Mother’s humility emanated from her joyful demeanor.
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We thank her for her faithfulness and example and we ask the Lord to bless her in all that she embarks on. We know that she looks always for God’s will in her prayer life and strives for holiness each day. Our “virtual office” was truly edified by her presence.
She is a gift to the Church! Thank you Victoria!
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This video covers the dignity the topic of the human person as expressed in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. |
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“Vaccines: What you need to know”
by Lisa A. Honkanen, M.D.
Vaccines have played an important role in reducing the impact of devastating diseases on the health of people worldwide. However, some vaccines are produced using cell lines derived from aborted fetuses. Learn more about what you need to consider | View PDF
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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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“All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” Col. 3:17 |
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40 Days For Life Fall Campaign
September 23, 2020 to November 1, 2020
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5 reasons 2020 is better than you think
This year has been painful...but 2019 was the year of infanticide.
On today's video blog, I discuss FIVE positive trends from 2020 that provide reason to celebrate.
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Pro Bikers For Life Invite You to join other Christians in peacefully praying for the Unborn during a 40-Day Vigil outside Planned Parenthood
Since the first coordinated 40 Days for Life campaign took place in 2007, We've reached over 1000 cities in 63 countries.
Date:
September 23, 2020 to November 1,2020
Monday - Saturday from 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Address: 540 Fulton Ave, Hempstead, NY 11550
Ending Date: November 7, 2020 at 10:00 am
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As a Catholic, ending abortion should be a top priority to everyone. This year for the first time, I decided to lead a peaceful prayer vigil through an organization called 40 Days for Life. This organization has been successful in saving many babies, as well as helping the mothers who choose life. This campaign is located outside the Planned Parenthood of West Islip which is located at 180 Sunrise Highway, West Islip. My goal is to have at least one person outside praying to end abortion for at least 12 hours/day, 7 days a week, and hopefully eventually 24 hours/day.
Abortion is big business to Planned Parenthood. I am sure we will be met with opposition. I know we will receive negative comments from abortion workers and cars passing by. But remember the words of Jesus: “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
This is not a protest. This is a peaceful prayer vigil, possibly with signs saying something like, “Pray to End Abortion, 40 Days for Life”, or, “Choose Life, We Can Help”. We may have the opportunity to offer these scared mothers information on where they can get an ultrasound so they can see their baby before they make such a decision that they will definitely regret one day. One ex-Planned Parenthood Director told us that when there was a 40 Days for Life Campaign going on at her Planned Parenthood location, their no-show rate increased to 75%!
Please consider coming and praying with us for at least 1 hour during this 40-day period. Some people can commit to one recurring hour every week. Some can commit to more. You can sign up for prayer hours at: www.40daysforlife.com/westislip. If you have any questions, or would like some signs to bring with you, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.
Thank you, and God Bless,
Paul Arena, 516-848-1562
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With God All Things Are Possible
By: Denise Makowski
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Even though my prayers were very much directed at the horrors happening inside of Planned Parenthood Smithtown, it was what was happening on the outside that caught my attention. The scene played out innocently enough that an unaware bystander would pay little mind to two construction workers on the front lawn and a truck pulling into the building’s driveway.
This seemingly harmless sight, however, was anything but that. The men “just doing their jobs” were contributing, no matter how far removed, to the evil inside of Planned Parenthood’s walls. The construction workers ensured the building’s longevity and safety, and the medical waste truck driver ensured the removal and disposal of aborted baby body parts. Read more
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23rd Annual
Stand Up For Life
Sunday, October 4, 2020
2:00-3:30 PM
(rain or shine)
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Two locations:
Along Route 110 and Route 25, Huntington
and LIE, Exit 70S, County Rd. 111, Manorville
In Manorville, please park as directed by SUFL Captains
We are two of over 1500 sites throughout the US and Canada on this day!
All are welcome!
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Signs are provided along the route at each site. Only approved signs permitted.
We do not march, but stand united along these busy roads in a peaceful,
prayerful witness to the sanctity of life!
Bring your family, friends, coworkers, neighbors and join us for the largest
annual pro-life event on Long Island!
Your presence sends a positive message
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"The King will answer and say to them, 'Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.' Mt 25:40 |
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Reflect
Sadly, our culture often pits a mother against her children, portraying a false “either/or” choice between her children and her dreams. Inaccurate messages spread the idea that a woman’s life is “over” once she becomes a mother.
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But we know that countless young mothers have become unexpectedly pregnant and have continued to pursue education. And arguably, they do so not in spite of their children, but because of their children. Even if things don’t go exactly according to plan—timelines may shift, and dreams may change—the twists and turns can bring unexpected joy, purpose, and growth.
In The Gospel of Life, Pope St. John Paul II commends “brave mothers… who are ready to make any effort, to face any sacrifice, in order to pass on to [their children] the best of themselves” (EV 86).
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Experience a new approach to women’s health care |
The Gianna Center is a medical practice dedicated to empowering women with a restorative, scientifically based method for monitoring and
maintaining their health.
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- Infertility
- Menstrual cycle abnormalities
- Endometriosis and painful periods
- Ovarian cysts
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- Hormonal abnormalities
- Menopausal therapy
- Creighton Model FertilityCare System™
- (Natural family planning)
- NaProTECHNOLOGY™ medical
- and surgical consultations
- General gynecological care
- Women’s general medical care
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Gianna Center of Long Island
661 Deer Park Avenue
Babylon, NY 11702
631-376-3232
The Gianna Center, Rockville Centre
1000 North Village Avenue, Rockville Centre, NY 11570
516-705-1148
Gianna Center of New York City
15 East 40th Street, Suite 101
New York, NY 10016
212-481-1219
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Ask a Fertility Educator
By: Jamey Hutchinson BSN CFCP, Women's Health Nurse, FertilityCare Practitioner
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Question: I've been told I have PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome), what do I do? Will this affect my fertility?
Response: Many young women today have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, also known as PCOS. PCOS is characterized by androgen excess, ovulatory dysfunction, and polycystic ovaries. In PCOS, often multiple ovarian cysts grow at the same time and cause a number of side effects, such as irregular periods, infertility, acne and hirsutism (excess body or facial hair growth), and insulin resistance. Additionally, it is associated with endometriosis about 50% of the time. Statistics show between 10 to 20 percent women have PCOS, yet more than 50 percent are undiagnosed. Read more
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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
After Abortion website, call the Respect Life Office's confidential phoneline: 1-888-456-HOPE(se habla espanol) 1-516-766 2538, email projectrachel@drvc.org to begin healing after abortion loss.
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Next Opportunity for Prayer and Healing
Day of Prayer and Healing for Women
Saturday, November 7, 2020
All reservations and information will remain confidential.
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If you need help please call our help line and someone will be happy to give some counsel over the phone to calm any fears or anxieties. |
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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/Project Rachel Coordinator
Jamey Hutchinson BSN CFCP CFCE Educational Liaison to
Gianna Center for Women's Health & Fertility
631-376-3232
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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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