Dear Brothers and Sisters,
As we celebrate July 4th we thank God for the opportunity to live in a land where there are many ideas and beliefs that coexist because of the freedom we enjoy. While the pursuit of total freedom is not yet fully recognized among all citizens, the vision is what keeps our nation on track. Far from perfect, it’s a society that is admired throughout the world. And because of the imperfections, we should be seeking correction, reconciliation, and healing.
Realizing that the abortion issue is front and center in light of SCOTUS’ recent reversal of Roe v. Wade and related cases, there is a great deal of confusion for many. And anger. And anxiety.
However, the decision – on many levels – now affords a dialogue that has been missing since 1973. What is the actual role of the state? What has science discovered about a human’s fetal development and the pain that an aborted fetus feels? What have medical advances revealed about a baby’s personhood? How does our system need to reform in order to support moms who choose life for their children? What are the actual statistics about rape and incest which are among leading arguments to justify abortion? How can equity in the workplace help to secure a woman’s right to be both a mother and have a successful career? What is the biological father’s responsibility toward the life he brought into the world? How can the government substantially support children and families? Let’s pursue the possibilities for a society that embraces life!
When the decision of Roe v. Wade was rendered (whether one agrees with it, or not), any chance for dialogue was severely curbed. Now that it belongs to each state within our great Union, let’s have those dialogues. For us Catholics, this incorporates faith and reason. Let’s talk about our human dignity as beloved of God while we actually follow the science which has greatly developed since 1973. Shouting on the corner of the market place is one thing, but informed and prayerful dialogue will be more productive in the long run. Christians and all people of God will, should be about authentic metanoia, that is, a change of heart because we’ve encountered logic, truth, grace, and charity.
Let freedom ring for the unborn citizens who deserve a right to live. And then let’s build on that as we continue to address racism, immigration, sexism, and whatever else needs examination within a culture of life.
Yours in Christ our Life,
Fr. Gurnick
EUCHARISTIC REFLECTION: A SACRAMENT THAT UNIFIES AND HEALS DIVISIONS
St. Paul taught that the celebration of the Eucharist is insincere if there are divisions within the community based on class (1 Cor 11), status or privilege (Rom12), or if there are factions within the community (1Cor1). Partaking in the Sacrament as equals in the Body of Christ challenges us to unity as one family.
What in my life requires reconciliation? A sinful habit? A wounded relationship? An offense against me? A misunderstanding?