October is annually observed as Respect Life Month in Catholic Churches across the United States. In the modern culture we live in today, all too often we come across situations in which the dignity of human life, at any stage, is threatened. Pope Saint John Paul II released an encyclical during his papacy titled, Evangelium Vitae (The Gospel of Life) which focused on expressing to all clergy, religious, and lay faithful the “value and inviolability of human life.” In a single statement within this document, Pope Saint John Paull II calls all of us to uphold and speak out to the world about the dignity of every human being:
It isn’t enough to recognize this inherent dignity of life on our own, it is our duty to speak out and make this truth known to the world. All too often we are complacent, pushing the responsibility to others instead of taking the initiative to inspire change ourselves. Will you take the step in this Respect Life Month to work toward justice for all life? Need some examples of tangible ways to do this? Check out some tips below!
Become Politically Active: This doesn’t just mean showing up on Election Day. This means taking the responsibility to inform yourself of and support national, state, and local candidates who you know have the intention to protect life no matter what the cost.
LOBBY: Ever think you weren’t informed enough to lobby? This isn’t possible. Elected officials need to hear from the people. They need to know our concerns and be held accountable for the decisions they make. Pay a visit to your local elected officials to defend life!
Use Social Media
: Flood the internet—use your social following to make an impact on people. Planting seeds and being an example may not have immediate, measurable outcomes, but you never know what seeds may blossom down the road on account of your own bravery to stand up for LIFE.
