This week marks the fourth anniversary of the Repeal of the 8th Amendment in our country which led to the legalisation of abortion. We mark this moment with solemn prayer and reflection, remembering the 21,000 victims of abortion since that time. We remember all the women involved and pledge to do more to help them and all who find themselves in crisis pregnancies. Below is a video taken from the Dail as the shocking figures are stated. They confirm what we all knew to be true despite what the Taoiseach said at the time - that abortion would be rare once it was legal.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH:
DAY 4 OF THE NOVENA FOR LIFE
Today's intention is for expectant fathers of unborn children. Below is a link to the relevant day during the novena for life.
Reflection
Fatherhood has its origins in God, who chose to reveal Himself to us as Our Father, sending his only Son for the sake of our salvation. Fathers therefore have a special role “in revealing and in reliving on earth the very fatherhood of God” (Familiaris consortio 25). Fathers are called to exhibit “generous responsibility for the life conceived under the heart of the mother” (FC 25). They are uniquely entrusted with the protection and defence of both mother and child and, in this way, in safeguarding the sanctity of human life.
As evidenced in our world today, the role of the father “is of unique and irreplaceable importance” (FC 25). Often women choose abortion because they do not have the support of the child’s father, or — even worse — the father of the child pressures her to make the decision to abort. At the same time, it is important to acknowledge with compassion that men can also be overwhelmed by an unexpected pregnancy and that society increasingly tells them that they should have no say in their children’s lives. In the face of these false messages, we pray that expectant fathers will find courage in the example of Saint Joseph — who embraced the role of father amid difficult circumstances — and offer loving, life-affirming support to the mothers of their children.
CLICK HERE FOR THE NOVENA: