(Sent to all priests nationwide, October 2002)
1. Pursuant to the request of the United States Conference of Catholic
Bishops in their Pastoral Plan for Pro-life Activities (November 2001)
that a prayer for life be offered at every Mass, we provide the following
petition for this Sunday's General Intercessions:
That as we exercise the privilege of voting for our elected officials this
Tuesday, our choices may reflect the Gospel of Life, Justice, and Peace, we pray
to the Lord.
2. Moreover, the following can serve as a bulletin insert, based on this
Sunday's readings, and a suggested launching point for the homily:
The lesson on self-exaltation and humility in today's Gospel applies to those
we shall elect to public office on November 5. The first role of elected
officials is to know their place. They are servants of the people, not masters.
They are called to guard human rights, not to grant them. They are to be
advocates for the helpless, not their oppressors.
Government got "too involved" in abortion when it pretended to have the right
to deprive the unborn of personhood. Candidates who support the "right to
abortion" actually support a concept of government that sets itself above
intrinsic human rights. More is at stake here than the legality of a medical
procedure. What is at stake is whether government serves us or destroys us.
Please vote on November 5. For candidate and other information, visit
www.priestsforlife.org/elections .
3. Many individuals distribute voter guides this weekend. It is their
constitutional right to do so on public property, despite the proximity of that
property to the parish Church. We hope you will not allow any unfounded fears to
discourage their initiative in actively fulfilling their political
responsibilities.
4. Some parish communities offer rides for people who cannot get to the
polls, or assistance in watching small children while their parents vote. We
encourage you to offer this non-partisan service on Election Day.
5. Finally, please urge your people to get out and vote. For
further information, including candidates' positions, see
www.priestsforlife.org/elections .