The Catholic Bishops Conference has arranged a National Prayer Vigil in Knock Co. Mayo for tomorrow Saturday May 5th. We wish to encourage everyone to attend if possible because in the words of St Paul in Ephesians 6.12.
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against
the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness,
against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
The programme for the National Prayer Vigil for the right to
life of Mothers and Babies is as follows:
1.00pm: Rosary Procession
With scripture reflections and personal testimonies
2.00pm: Short Presentation
Protecting the Equal Right to Life of Mothers and Unborn
Children in Ireland today.
3.00pm: Holy Mass
Celebrant – Cardinal Seán Brady, Archbishop of Armagh and
Primate of All Ireland
Homilist: Most Reverend Brendan Leahy, Bishop of Limerick
The Bishops Conference website sets out the following
Saturday, 4 May 2013 is designated as a national Day of
prayer for Life ‘from womb to tomb’ in the Basilica at Our Lady’s Shrine,
Knock. People from every parish in Ireland are invited to come to Knock for
this day which will focus on prayer and liturgy for the intention of protecting
Unborn Life.
Choose Life: Ireland faces a defining moment
The decision by the present Irish Government to legislate
for abortion means that Irish law will permit the direct and intentional
killing of innocent unborn babies. Doctors in Ireland have confirmed that
mothers already receive any life-saving treatments they need during pregnancy –
and that this is achieved without directly targeting the life of the baby.
The Choose Life: We Cherish them Both, Vigil of Prayer for
the Right to Life of Mothers and their Unborn Babies, is an opportunity for all
people of faith and goodwill to join in prayer for mothers and unborn babies,
that they will continue to be protected, cherished, and safeguarded from all
harm.
Please be part of this special day and invite as many of
your family, friends and loved ones as you can.
In the words of Pope Francis, before he became Pope:
“Caring for life from the beginning to the end. What a simple thing, what a beautiful thing. So, go forth and don’t be discouraged. Care for life. It’s worth it!”
Mass in honour of Saint Raymond Nonnatus, Patron Saint of
Expectant Mothers, Argentina (31 August 2005)
