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Respect Life: Trust In His Mercy

One thing the saints had in common was their uncanny ability to remember and call on God’s mercy. They would fall hundreds of times a day and faithfully – with confidence and without hesitation – run back into the loving arms of their heavenly Father. Looking at Jesus throughout the gospels, He reminds us that He came to heal the sick, to reclaim what was lost and, most of all, to shower mercy upon all who most need it.

Sometimes, because of the gravity of our actions, it seems impossible that anyone – including God – can forgive us, especially when we cannot forgive ourselves. Please remember that we are not alone. Others have experienced similar trials and sufferings, and their experiences and understanding can help. Most importantly, Jesus is always with us and, as we say in the Divine Mercy chaplet, “His mercy is endless and the treasury of His compassion inexhaustible.”

 Things to Consider:

• Project Rachel is a diocesan-based network of specially trained priests, religious, counselors, and laypersons who provide a team response of care for those suffering in the aftermath of abortion. In addition to referring for Sacramental Reconciliation, the ministry provides an integrated network of services, including pastoral counseling, support groups, retreats, and referrals to licensed mental health professionals. Project Rachel is open to all.
• Finding a post-abortion counselor or support group may be helpful for those going through the healing process.
• Pope Francis gave the authority of the healing Sacrament of Confession for abortion to all priests, where previously it was only available through the Bishop.
• Forgiveness. It is most important to forgive ourselves and others for what has happened. God truly does not want us to live a lifetime in mourning or to suffer in silence.
• Ask Our Lady for her help and intercession.

Healing from abortion may seem insurmountable – yet all things are possible with God. Many resources are available to those who need them.

For more information and a list of resources, please visit www.usccb.org/prolife/abortion-healing.

If you’d like more information about, or would like to join Our Lady of the Wayside’s Respect Life Ministry, please email RespectLife@olwparish.org.