Monday, January 23, is the National Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, and I encourage each of us to pray in a special way for mothers and their unborn babies on that day. And, today, people from around the Saginaw Diocese as well as nationwide are marching in support of life; each beautiful and delicate life created by God. That being said, every life is SO important that it's probably a good idea to pray daily for the protection of all life in every stage, at every age, in all of its God-given glorious forms. Even though Roe vs Wade has been overturned, I'm not so sure that changing laws is the same as changing people's hearts to truly value the gift of every life.
But how do we do THAT?
I believe it's through showing a consistency in what we stand for, who we vote for, the causes we support: babies in the womb, accessible and affordable healthcare, employment that pays a living wage, educational opportunities, reduced childcare expenses, fair immigration policies, sensible gun laws, saying "no" to the death penalty, making prisons restorative instead of punitive, caring for the elderly and those with mental illness, treating the Earth as gift instead of economic opportunity. Getting all of these little lives here is so important, but making sure that they have a life of dignity once they are is vital.
The 7 Principles of Catholic Social Teaching instruct us on what it means to treat all life with dignity. This is not some "fringe, believe it if you want" type of teaching. It is fundamental to who we are as people who believe in life. If you aren't sure what the 7 Principles are or you just need a little 2 minute reminder, please check out this Busted Halo Video:
If you are looking for a way to support the lives of mothers and their babies you might want to check out the following ministries and organizations:
Life Clinic Community Resources: https://lifeclinic.org/contact/midland-location/
Hopeful Future Scholarship: https://ccfmm.org/fund/the-hopeful-future-scholarship/
Walking with Moms in Need: https://www.walkingwithmoms.com/
Joshua's House: https://www.joshuashouseint.org/
Mother Teresa Fund: https://ccfmm.org/fund/the-mother-teresa-fund/
H.I.S. Restoration Ministries: https://hisrm.us/
At one or ALL of these LIFE-giving Gatherings
It's not too late to register for Father Alberto's talk on the Holy Spirit on Saturday, January 28. Please register no later than January 25 by calling the Parish Center or visiting the Website. More than 60 people have already signed up!
https://www.blessed-midland.org/2022/12/12/beyond-the-nudge-rediscovering-the-gifts-of-the-holy-spirit/
A Short History of the Catholic Church in the U.S.
Presented by Norb Bufka
February 6
Details can be found in the bulletin or on the website. Register by calling the Parish Center or via the website:
https://www.blessed-midland.org/2023/01/19/a-short-history/
Is there a young adult or college student or two (or three) that you would like to send a little LOVE to this Valentine’s Day?
If so, please join us on
Tuesday, February 7 at 7:00 for our yearly “Box Full of Love” event.
Check the bulletin and website for registration details:
2 Reminders and a Song
1. Gentlemen, we are trying to learn more about the types of opportunities you would be interested in being part of within our Blessed Sacrament Family. If you haven't already done so, please take a moment to fill out this survey:
https://www.blessed-midland.org/2023/01/10/mens-morning-of-reflection-survey/
2. Our Lenten Small Faith Group opportunities have been created and you can now view them on the website. A flyer will be in next week's bulletin with the same info. Sign ups will be the weekend of February 4/5. You can check out your options here:
https://www.blessed-midland.org/small-faith-group-options/
SEASONS
I don't know about you, but this strange January weather has me wondering what season we are actually in!! All of the dormant plants and gray EVERYTHING, makes me think about how sometimes, things that seem not to be growing really are! Sometimes our lives might feel a little bit that way too. The seasons of our lives can hit wintery patches, but we can be assured that God is with us filling us with grace and strength and LIFE! The following tune is from my Advent list. I hope that you enjoy it!
Wishing you all a life giving week filled with warmth and wonder!
With Joy and Gratitude,
lyn