October 25, 2020

We are almost at the end of October. I hope that you have been able to pray the rosary during this month or said one of the Marian prayers like the Memorare, or Salve Regina. These prayers not only honor Mary, they help us to deepen our relationship with Mary who always leads us to trusting in her Son, Jesus.

Many, too, focused in October on Respect for Life and the 40 Days for Life Program. These efforts help us to realize how important the gift of human life is to us as Catholics. From the very first moment of conception to natural death, all life is sacred. So, we stand against abortion, all violence, abuse, capital punishment, unjust war, euthanasia. We respect the human rights of every person. Each person is to receive honor and be welcome to participate as fully as possible in society that seeks the common good.

This month also calls us to be prepared to vote with a conscience that has been informed and uses the virtue of prudence. We may not feel comfortable with any one particular candidate, but vote we must. We seek the best information available to us and vote using our ability to choose even though we may not agree completely with a candidate.

I also encourage you to watch the Beatification of Father Michael J. McGivney on Saturday morning, October 31 . Father McGivney was a priest of the Archdiocese of Hartford and the founder of the Knights of Columbus. We honor him, the holiness of his life and his work in supporting those in need.

Looking forward to November: the month of all Saints and Thanksgiving.

Msgr. Joe