In a 2013 message for the Day of Life, Pope Francis reminds us of the “inestimable value” of all human life. Emphasizing the need to care for life in all its stages from conception to its natural end, the Holy Father writes, “Even the weakest and most vulnerable, the sick, the old, the unborn, and the poor are created in his own image, destined to live forever, and deserving of the utmost reverence and respect.”
Our parish community is fully committed to promoting the dignity of the human person and the preferential option for the poor and most vulnerable among us. Listed below are some of the many ways that Christ the King is involved in supporting the sanctity of human life.
CRIB CLUB
We ask parishioners to donate specific amounts to go towards cribs for the Women’s Care Center. Each donation comes with a Mother’s Day card to give to the woman in whose honor you are making the donation. This is a wonderful way to assist young women and new mothers in need who feel alone and unsupported.
MOTHER’S DAY CARNATIONS
In addition, we sell carnations after Mass every year before Mother’s Day, the proceeds of which go to support Right to Life Michiana.
DIAPER DRIVE
Every October for Respect Life Month, Christ the King sponsors a Diaper Drive to collect necessary items for young mothers and their families. The diapers, wipes, and other supplies are donated to the Women’s Care Center. Volunteers are always appreciated to help transport donations from the parish to the Women’s Care Center facilities. Please contact Elizabeth Sain for more information.
RESPECT LIFE MONTH
In addition to the diaper drive, the parish adds pink envelopes to the pews and asks that a special donation be made to organizations in the area that work specifically with young women who are considering abortion. These groups are Hannah’s House, Women’s Care Center, and Right to Life Michiana.
It is important to remember that truly being pro-life includes care for the mother as much as the child. We pray that women feel supported during their pregnancies as well as after the birth of their children. Christians must help them rejoice at the gift of life by offering the aid they need to find peace with the new responsibility God has given them. Let us always have an attitude of joy and thanksgiving to support all life.
If you know of anyone in a crisis pregnancy situation who needs material support, emotional accompaniment, and spiritual guidance, please feel free to recommend the following resources in our community.
Hannah’s House
Women’s Care Center
HerMichiana
Walking with Moms in Need
Apostolate of Divine Mercy in Service of Life, Marriage, and the Family
Bridge of Hope
Driving While Pregnant
In addition, the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend sponsors several additional initiatives for parents facing challenging situations around the issues of fertility, pregnancy, and childbirth.
Miriam’s Blessing provides comprehensive support to parents who receive a poor prenatal diagnosis.
Ava’s Grace offers spiritual, emotional, and practical support to families who suffer a miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss.
Hope for the Journey offers spiritual, emotional, and practical support for couples who are experiencing infertility or secondary infertility.
Project Rachel ministers to and counsels women seeking healing and reconciliation following a past abortion.