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Happening ... in the Local Church
 St.
Maria Goretti parishioners present white roses during the Mass,
representing the lives of children saved at Indianapolis’ four abortion
centers. (Photo by Lisa Wilson-Cotillier) |
By Lisa Wilson-Cotillier
The Catholic Moment
WESTFIELD — Parishioners and friends gathered at St. Maria Goretti Parish on Jan. 6, the feast of the Epiphany, to celebrate the gift of life at the fourth annual “Gifts of Life” Mass.
The Mass celebrated the lives of 136 children — represented by 136 white roses presented by parishioners at the Offertory — whose mothers chose life instead of abortion at Indianapolis’ four abortion centers.
“This is a beautiful time of the year to look back at 2007 and see the fruit of pro-life work that people have done from their heart,” said organizer Karla Cockman. “This Mass, for me, really draws attention to the fact that every baby is a gift from God and is created with an intention.”
The roses stood in contrast to the bright red poinsettias before the altar.
“Every year the number of roses continues to grow.” observed Father Dale Ehrman, celebrant. “Each rose is a reminder that we can make a difference — one life at a time.
“Today we also recognize the accomplishments of the pro-life ministry, and recall that as Catholic Christians we are called to stand up for the truth, and we can do that in many practical ways, whether it is praying in front of an abortion clinic, or praying for an end to abortion before the Blessed Sacrament. We can help others to see that life is sacred, and when they see that truth and experience it, it can change their heart.”
Truth and Compassion Ministries, an ecumenical pro-life ministry that reaches out to women from the sidewalks outside the clinics, kept count of the number of children saved. Bob Rust, a parishioner of St. John Church in Enochsburg, began the ministry in 1989.
“There are many different ways that we keep track of the women who choose life,” he said. “Women will come to us later and tell us about it, they will come to talk to us as we hold vigil on the sidewalks, or we will see them change their minds right then and there. It’s very edifying to be there and to witness that change of heart.”
Parishioner involvement in Truth and Compassion Ministries, and other pro-life causes, brought about the Mass.
“We spoke with (pastor) Father Kevin Haines, and he supported the idea,” said Cockman. “I think it’s a great testament to all that has been accomplished, and also a reminder to us all that there is still so much more to do.”
Rust has attended the “Gifts of Life” Mass each year since it began. “I enjoy coming,” he said. “It allows us to look back at our accomplishments, and it prepares us for the coming year.”
“We are out on the sidewalk offering women another option everywhere abortions are being performed,” said Dolores Tucker, director of Truth and Compassion Ministries.
“It can be a tough ministry,” she said, “but it’s a ministry based on obedience to God. When I have a chance to hold one baby who has been saved and feel that baby breathing in my arms, I know that all of those moments standing in the cold and snow in winter, or the heat in summer, is worth it.”
Eileen Hartman, director of the Gabriel Project, also attended the Mass. The project, begun in 1991, assists women facing crisis pregnancies.
“Today is a wonderful witness for those of us who are there with the women, not just on the front lines, but also behind the scenes helping the women day to day,” she said. “It is also a wonderful reminder to all of us of the positive impact we can have in spreading the Gospel of Life.”