Catholics need to unite in prayer despite political divisions, bishop says at respect life event

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Ten days before the divisive U.S. presidential election on Nov. 5, Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney encouraged Catholics to continue their efforts to “build a culture of life” amid a “growing culture of death” in society.

Bishop Sweeney issued that urgent plea on Oct. 26 during the Diocesan Respect Life Convocation at St. Mary Parish in Denville. The Diocesan Family Life Office, Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney, and the Sisters of Life sponsored this third annual event, which was guided by the theme “United in Prayer for Life, Family, and Country.”

“We understand the divisions, struggles, and challenges, but we need to be united in prayer. It’s easy in our current circumstances to get discouraged, but we have so much to be grateful and hopeful for,” Bishop Sweeney told participants. ““Your presence gives me great hope for how we are doing that in our Paterson Diocese.”

That day, many Catholics unable to attend the convocation prayed for life, family, and country in local parishes in communion with the event participants. Parishes opened their churches for a Mass, adoration, rosary, or other devotions. At the same time, the convocation held Mass with Bishop Sweeney, followed by adoration and a recitation of a family rosary.

The convocation occurred in October when the Church in the United States observed Respect Life Month. Eniola Honsberger, diocesan Family Life director, urged participants to “pray for someone who struggles with believing in the value and dignity of his or her life.”

Sister Fidelity Grace and Sister Madeline Agnes of the Sisters of Life gave reflections in English and Spanish about “The Gift of Life” and “The Gift of Family.”

In her second talk, Sister Madeline Agnes reminded participants in English that families are called to be “visible witnesses to God’s love to those around them” through their many actions.

“Each family member is given a unique gift to help us grow in holiness by mutual support. When we love one another, it is the love of Christ within us,” Sister Madeline said.

BEACON PHOTOS | JOE GIGLI

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