FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE / JANUARY 8, 2021
GAYLORD, MICHIGAN — Catholics across the Diocese of Gaylord are invited to join in the observance of the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children on January 22, 2021. This date marks the 48th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton decisions which legalized abortion. Since that time, more than 60 million legalized abortions have taken place. Each January, Catholics come together to pray for an end to abortion and for a greater respect for all human life.
On January 22, all are welcome to participate in the Mass For Giving Thanks to God for the Gift of Human Life, which will be celebrated by Bishop Walter A. Hurley, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Gaylord, at St. Mary Cathedral in Gaylord at 12:15 p.m. The livestream will be available at www.dioceseofgaylord.org.
“This past year has caused us to reflect on what we hold most dear and what we value most — both as a society, and more profoundly, as individual followers of Christ. The upcoming anniversary of Roe v. Wade prompts us to reflect on one of our most fundamental beliefs as Catholics: The value and dignity of life in all stages from conception to natural death, a precious gift,” states Bishop Hurley.
“With this anniversary, we remember and pray for the [millions of] children whose lives have been tragically ended as a result of abortion. This painful reality stirs something deep within us, reminding us of the fragility of human life and our common call to protect one another, especially the weak and vulnerable.
“Let’s join together in praying that our hearts never become hardened to such tragedy and that we remain courageous and firm in our resolve to protect life and call for an end to abortion. Especially in this intensely divisive time in our nation’s history, it’s imperative that our resolve be coupled with charity, humility and compassion. The loss of life through abortion leaves an indelible mark, causing enduring pain and grief for mothers and families. It is critical that we both fervently call for an end to abortion and show the merciful love of Christ to those who are suffering from the sorrow and regret of an abortion. May we look to our Blessed Mother, who knows the pain of losing a child, and ask for her intercession as we implore an end to abortion and healing for those suffering because of it.”
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The Diocese of Gaylord was established by His Holiness Pope Paul VI on July 20, 1971. The territory encompasses 11,171 square miles and includes the 21 most northern counties of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. The region is home to nearly 50,000 Catholics, served by 75 parishes, 17 Catholic schools and many closely-related institutions. For more information, visit www.dioceseofgaylord.org.
Keywords: Roman Catholic Church, Diocese of Gaylord, Roe v. Wade, Doe v. Bolton, Respect Life, Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, Abortion, Dignity of the Human Person
Media Contact: Mrs. Mackenzie Ritchie, Director of Communications / mritchie@dioceseofgaylord.org / 989.705.3506
