Marcella and Tom Claridge
Created in the image and likeness of God, the origin of all life, men and women are called to be partners with the Creator in transmitting the sacred gift of human life. (Pontifical Council on the Family, The Ethical and Pastoral Dimensions of Population Trends, March 25th, 1994, no. 73)
The Human Life & Dignity Ministry promotes respect and protection for all human life from conception to natural death, through prayer, education, witness, and advocacy. The HL&D Committee meets on the third Monday of each month at 9:45 a.m. just outside the Sacristy. For more information on HL&D, contact Marcella or Tom Claridge at humanlifeanddignity@stfrancisyulee.org
Our next meeting will be on Monday, Decwember 16th from 9:45 – 11:45 just outside the Sacristy. All are welcome to attend!
It takes many hands to build the culture of life!
Rise and Shine a Bit Earlier!
Our daily rosary at 8:30 am in the chapel will now resume on a regular basis. Join us from Monday through Thursday as we ask Our dear Blessed Mother to intercede for our needs, especially as we enter the election cycle and work and pray to defeat Amendment 4!
Our thanks to those who have spiritually adopted an unborn baby and pledged to pray daily for this child and his/her parents.
Remember to pray daily for your spiritually adopted child and his/her parents. During your earthly life this spiritually adopted child of yours is known only to God, but in the world to come it is hoped that you will meet this child whose life was spared by your prayers and spend eternal happiness with him/her.
SPIRITUAL ADOPTION
Remembering Our Spiritually Adopted Babies
Please pray! The babies are counting on us. Remember to pray daily for your spiritually adopted child and his/her parents. During your earthly life, this spiritually adopted child of yours is known only to God, but in the world to come, it is hoped that you will meet this child whose life was spared by your prayers and spend eternal happiness with him/her.
If you’re having a hard time remembering to pray for your child, connect your prayer to one of your daily activities such as grace before meals, brushing your teeth, getting dressed, driving in the car, turning the lights off at night, or turning them on in the morning. Simple, short prayers are fine or memorize the following from Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, “Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, I love you very much. I beg you to spare the life of the unborn baby (add the name of your child) that I have spiritually adopted who is in danger of abortion.”
This Lenten season, being a time of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, we ask you to join in our Spiritual Adoption Program. Through this program, you will have an opportunity to spiritually adopt a newly conceived baby. Tragically, a number of these babies are in danger of abortion. These are the babies you are being asked to “adopt”.
After all Masses on February 17th and 18th, in the Narthex, prayer and pledge cards will be given out by members of the Human Life and Dignity ministry for you to name the baby and pledge to pray for this baby and his/her mother and father for a period of nine months. Naming the baby makes this personal and focuses on the reality that your prayers are helping to save a particular baby.
Monthly reports on your baby’s development through all 9 months will be in our bulletin, on our website, and Facebook page. A poster for each month will be located in the narthex.
The idea for spiritual adoption was first promoted by the late Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen who composed the following prayer that will be printed on your prayer card:
Jesus, Mary & Joseph, I love you very much. I beg you to spare the life of the unborn child that I have spiritually adopted who is in danger of abortion.
Please join in praying for one of the many unborn babies who are at risk of abortion. Your prayers are desperately needed!
Spiritual Adoption Poster Located in the Narthex shows the first amazing month of life for this unborn baby!
Your spiritually adopted baby has been quite active over the past month. Already your baby is 10,000 times bigger than at conception. Your baby has developed the foundations of His/her brain, spinal cord, and nervous system by the 20th day. His/her heart began to beat on the 21st day and is pumping blood though its own circulatory system. The blood type can be different from the mother’s. Your baby is most vulnerable during the next month of being aborted. Pray that the Lord of Life might move the heart of His/her mother to give him the most precious gift of all – the gift of life.
Two Months: Your baby is making progress in developing all of his/her external features and internal organs. his/her brain is functioning at 40 days. His/her mother can hear his/her heartbeat now on an ultrasonic stethoscope. His/her milk teeth buds are present at 6 ½ weeks. And it has been reported that a two-month-old baby can suck his/her thumb. From this moment onward, your spiritually adopted baby grows and refines his/her body. But everything she needs to survive once she is born is already present by the end of the eighth week.
SPIRITUAL ADOPTION
Our poster located in the narthex by the prayer intentions book shows the third amazing month of life for your spiritually adopted unborn baby!
Three Months: Your baby is quite active in the womb now – although his/her mother won’t feel him/her for another couple of months. If his/her mother’s womb had a window, you could watch your spiritually adopted baby squint, swallow, and move his/her tongue. He/she can make a tight fist if you touch his/her palm. He/she obtains the oxygen his/her body needs through the umbilical cord. The baby you are praying for weighs one ounce. What a miracle he/she is!
4 Months! Take a look at the poster in the narthex to see your baby’s growth!
Well, your little baby now weighs 6 ounces. He/she has fingernails and eyelashes. He/she has his/her own unique fingerprints which will remain unchanged until he/she dies. His/her taste buds are working. His/her sense of hearing is present at 14 weeks. There are no major bodily developments anymore. Your spiritually adopted baby is already well-formed, internally and externally. All he/she needs now is time to gain weight and grow strong.
“I am 5 months old now. I’m 12 inches long and weigh about a pound. I’m really getting big and my mommy can feel me kicking and stretching, especially when she’s resting.”
We are now halfway through the pregnancy and your spiritually adopted baby is very active. This month say a special prayer to St. Joseph for the father of your baby that he has the courage and strength he needs to support mom and baby.
Six Month Spiritually Adopted Baby Check-up
“I’m six-months old now and sitting up straight! I just opened my eyes; before today they were sealed shut for protection. I wonder what you look like. I can hear sounds, too. It’s great to have someone praying for me.”
We are now nearing the end of the second trimester and your spiritually adopted baby is growing quite beautifully. His or her weight is approaching 2 pounds and the body organs have moved into their final place in the body. Babies born prematurely at this time have a very good chance of surviving. The medical advances in caring for extremely small newborn infants are extraordinary indeed. Each passing year, we witness medical advances that allow our medical professionals to save younger and younger premature infants. (View the poster in the Narthex to see your baby’s growth.)
“Thank you for praying for me. I am 7 months old now. I am growing every day. I’m between 14 and 17 inches long and weigh about 4.5 pounds. I move around a lot but it’s getting crowded in here! Sometimes I even get the hiccups!
You’re in the home stretch with your baby now. He or she is wholly formed, can see, hear, and recognize mom’s voice, taste, cough, yawn, and is gaining weight, making his/her mother uncomfortable. Mom is planning to bring the child home or place them for adoption. She appreciates your prayers for her and her baby throughout the pregnancy. It hasn’t been easy, but your prayers have given her the grace to seek help from caring people.
Let us pray: “Jesus, Mary and Joseph, I love you very much. I beg you to spare the life of the unborn baby that I have spiritually adopted who is in danger of abortion.” Prayer of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. Please remember to pray daily for your baby, mom, and dad.
“I like to listen to my Mommy’s voice! Thank you for praying for me! I am 8 months old now. I’ve got long fingernails, and I’m busy getting ready for my birthday. I can’t wait to see my Mom and Dad. Thanks to your prayers, I’ll see them soon.”
Now, your spiritually adopted baby is finished developing and is concentrating on gaining weight, making his or her mother uncomfortable with their size. The baby will need a layer of fat to help him or her stay warm after it leaves the perfect temperature inside the mother’s womb. For some time now, the baby has recognized the mother’s voice. In a short time, the baby will be born. Your prayers have helped give your spiritually adopted baby’s mother and father the graces they needed to bring their baby to term. “Jesus, Mary, and Joseph bless these families.”
PRISON MINISTRY ADVOCACY
Interested in our Jail and Prison Ministry Team?
We’ve got a special situation at Florida State Prison – it’s big, closed, and home to 1,400 inmates, including 85 Catholics we aim to serve. But here’s the deal: our team’s a bit short-handed for this commitment.
Typically, we visit twice a month, but with only 4 to 6 guys and a priest, we’re stretched thin. We need more folks to ensure we can reach everyone effectively. So, we’re looking for 24 to 30 extra men to join us. Unfortunately, due to the setting, we need male volunteers only. Ladies, if you know any interested men, please pass this along.
Contact John Chick, director of the diocese’s Prison Ministry, at jchick@dosafl.com or call (904) 293-3807. Let’s ensure we have a strong team spreading love and hope in St. Augustine.
Monday, April 8th, 2024 (Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord), JESUS was brought by Bishop Pohlmeier to a local abortuary in Jacksonville. They were accompanied by many clergy and hundreds of laity from the Diocese of St Augustine.
CAMP I AM SPECIAL – SUMMER REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN
For the last 40 years, Catholic Charities’ Camp I Am Special – an American Camp Association (ACA) accredited facility – has fostered and celebrated the quality of life for children, teenagers, and adults with intellectual and developmental differences (IDDs) and other disabilities. https://www.ccbjax.org/camp-i-am-special
Hey High Schoolers! Looking for an awesome volunteer opportunity this summer? Look no further! Join us at Camp I Am Special… We need YOU to be a Buddy and guide these amazing individuals through an unforgettable hands-on experience. Don’t worry, we’ll provide you with top-notch training and support every step of the way. Curious to learn more about becoming a Catholic Charities Camp I Am Special Buddy? Give us a call at (904) 230-7447 or check out our website at https://www.ccbjax.org/buddy.
RETREAT DATES
September 13th – 15th Spanish
October 4th – 6th English
December 5th – 7th English
A Rachel’s Vineyard weekend retreat is a beautiful opportunity for any man or woman who is struggling with the emotional and spiritual pain of abortion in their life. Come and receive peace, the forgiveness of self and others, and the compassion of God. These retreats are private, strictly confidential, and for people of all faiths. For more information, call 904-221-3232 or email rachelsvineyardjax@yahoo.com. All calls & inquiries are very confidential. Come and be restored!
Blessed Hermann of Reichenau
Patron of the Unborn and Disabled and the Office of Human Life and Dignity, Diocese of St. Augustine
God gave you life with great human frailty and through God’s grace your limitations became brilliant blessings. May you intercede to bring abortion to an end as well as intercede for all those whose lives are threatened because of their frailty no matter their stage of life. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
In September of 1013, a baby was born in what is now southern Germany. He was born with a cleft palate, cerebral palsy and spina bifida.
His parents did not leave him to die as so many other parents in the same position would have been tempted to do. In fact, his parents christened him with the name “Hermann” which means “Fighting Man.”
At the age of seven, his parents, recognizing Hermann’s gifts, took him to a Benedictine Monastery on the Island of Reichenau in Switzerland. He entered the cloister school there, a center of learning at the time. There he studied under the Abbot, Berno.
Through his studies there, Hermann became a celebrated mathematician and was known for his work in astronomy, history, and music.
Two hymns often attributed to Hemann are the Alma Redemptoris Mater and the Salve Regina. It’s possible he is the author of Veni Sancte Spiritus: “Come, Holy Spirit”.
Herman is said to have made astronomical and musical instruments and to have developed a system of musical notation.
In 1043, he became a monk at the Benedictine Monastery at Reichenau.
In 1048, when his beloved teacher Abbot Berno died, the monks of Reichenau made Hermann their abbot. This reflects how highly respected Hermann was among his peers despite his disabilities. Blessed Hermann died in September, 1054. He was beatified in 1863 by Pope Pius IX.
Florida Agency for Health Care Administration
9/2/2023 11:58 am
Abortion Performed due to Serious Fetal Genetic Defect, Deformity or Abnormality
Reporting Period: 2023 – Year to Date Total Cases: 221
Abortion Performed due to Fatal Fetal Abnormality
Reporting Period: 2023 – Year to Date Total Cases: 86
- THE SECULARIST WHO IS SO SURE THAT THE DISABLED, THE DEFORMED, THE DEFECTIVE, THE INCURABLY SICK AND THE AGING SHOULD BE DISPOSED OF BECAUSE THEY ARE A BURDEN TO SOCIETY, ARE PROVED WRONG ONCE AGAIN BY PEOPLE LIKE HERMANN– THE CRIPPLE AND MANY OTHERS IN OUR OWN DAY.
- IT IS NONSENSE TO SAY THAT A SICKLY BODY PRODUCES A SICKLY MIND. HIS FINENESS OF SOUL, HIS JOYFULNESS IN PAIN, AND HIS SWEETNESS OF MOOD PRODUCED GREAT FRUIT AND MADE HIM LOVED BY ALL. THE LIFE OF THIS TWISTED LITTLE FELLOW FROM THE DARK AGES PROVIDES THE PROOF OF HOW PAIN DOES NOT ALWAYS SPELL MISERY; PLEASURE DOES NOT ALWAYS SPELL HAPPINESS.
COULD A DEFECTIVE CHILD BRING OUT IN PEOPLE A COMPASSION, STRENGTH AND COURAGE THAT THEY THOUGHT THEY NEVER HAD? COULD THIS CHILD BE GOD’S PLAN FOR ENABLING HUNDREDS OF OTHER PEOPLE TO REACH OUT IN LOVE AND PRACTICAL HELP?
Monsignor Yennock’s Homily July 9, 2017 – Herman the Cripple
Total Cases of Induced Terminations of Pregnancy by Patient County of Residence
Reporting Period: 2023 – Year to Date Nassau County-Total Cases: 79
Induced Termination of Pregnancy – Report of Infants Born Alive
Reporting period: 2023 – Year to Date Total Cases: 10
Blessed Hermann, please intercede for all unborn children. Pray their mothers will understand they carry a person in their womb, a special and unique gift from God our Creator.
Blessed Hermann of Reichenau – Feast Day- September 25th
Blessed Hermann of Reichenau was an 11th century monk who was born with a cleft palate, cerebral palsy, and spinal muscular atrophy. Because of his disabilities, he could barely move and had to be carried everywhere. He was also a composer, music theorist, mathematician, astronomer, and historian. He wrote the comprehensive history of the first millennium starting with Jesus Christ. Most notably, he wrote the Salve Regina (Hail, Holy Queen).
Prayer
“God gave you life with great human frailty and through God’s grace, your limitations became brilliant blessings. May you intercede to bring abortion to an end as well as intercede for all those whose lives are threatened because of their frailty no matter their stage of life. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”
Sign up, receive and follow through on “action” alerts from the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops (https://flaccb.org/about-flcan) and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (www.usccb.org/take-action).
Participate in 40 Days for Life, a peaceful vigil and community outreach. For locations in Florida, click HERE
Join with members of the Human Life & Dignity Ministry and the RCIA in one hour of Adoration on Friday, October 7th, 1 pm – 2 pm for the restoration of the dignity of LIFE in all its stages. During the hour, Deacon Tom will lead us in the Litany of Life.
Volunteer at the Women’s Help Center in Callahan. Visit the elderly, especially family.
Holy mother of the infant Christ
Hope of Christian Womanhood
Model of all Christian mothers
Consolation of motherhood
Protector of motherhood
Queen of mothers
Mother of happy delivery
PRAY FOR US
HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS
Human trafficking is a situation in which an individual is compelled to work or engage in commercial sex through the use of force, fraud, or coercion. If the individual is under the age of 18 and engaging in commercial sex they are experiencing trafficking regardless of force, fraud, or coercion.
If you believe you may have information about a trafficking situation, call the 24/7 confidential National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888 or text “Be free” to (233733). For more information locally, email Ruby Peters, Human Trafficking educator for Catholic Charities at rubygeerspeters@gmail.com.
For more information, click HERE
Child Sex Trafficking Thriller
Based on the gripping true story of a man’s mission (Tim Ballard played by Jim Caviezel who portrayed Jesus in “The Passion of the Christ”) to rescue children from the darkest corners of the world. This action-packed drama shines a light on the harrowing reality of sex trafficking and the valiant efforts of those who work tirelessly to combat it.
About 2 million children are trafficked every year worldwide. The United States is considered one of the top destinations for victims of child trafficking and cases have been reported in all 50 states. According to a 2019 report from the Human Trafficking Hotline, California, Texas, Florida, Ohio, and New York rank at the top with the most cases. There are more than 350,00 children who go missing in the U.S. each year. Of those 350,000, it is estimated that roughly 100,000 are being trafficked. catholicnewsagency.com.
Child Sex Trafficking Thriller
Based on the gripping true story of a man’s mission (Tim Ballard played by Jim Caviezel who portrayed Jesus in “The Passion of the Christ”) to rescue children from the darkest corners of the world. This action-packed drama shines a light on the harrowing reality of sex trafficking and the valiant efforts of those who work tirelessly to combat it.
Members of St. Francis of Assisi share their comments.
“This movie is one that should be seen by many, especially by teens & parents of young children. The movie is gut wrenching & heart breaking. These children were stolen under false pretenses by a well-dressed glamorous lady, the former Miss Cartagena who is a kingpin in the child sex trafficking business. Child sex trafficking is the fastest growing international criminal network the world has ever seen. How anyone can hurt a child over & over again in such a heinous way is beyond my comprehension! “God’s children are not for sale”. Mary Flanagan
“I encourage everyone to see the movie, “Sound of Freedom” and promote what is so obvious and sacred: ‘God’s children are not for sale!'”
“You cannot be Pro-Life before birth, and ignore this insidious evil after birth. All God’s children must be protected and loved. We are loved into existence and must exist in Love.” Deacon Tom
“I hope every caring member of our Parish will ensure to see this movie, “Sound of Freedom”. What you don’t know will definitely hurt you. The movie made 5 years ago is now only being released. Why you ask? Could it be the effort of the evil one who has been active to stop it? German people were taken in by Hitler by not investigating what he stood for. Slavery has been with us for decades, but not in the number as seen today. Be informed. Get active.” Don Douglas
“Apparently it should have been released 5 years ago! The cast is superb, the movie is gripping and the ending is real! It is also eye-opening & sickening! It showed why it is so lucrative for the boss to do this instead of drugs!!! Call AMC and get a longer run!!” Nancy Terrell
“Exceptionally well done presentation. A must see film.” Jim Walsh
“Jolts one out of complacency. I can do something about this problem from praying, to being more aware in my neighborhood, to lobbying my legislators, to financially supporting groups who rescue those who are trafficked.” Marcella Claridge
Our Human Life and Dignity Ministry would like you to know that you did make a big difference in the lives of survivors of human trafficking at our recent evening by learning about the issue, understanding the Rethreaded mission, and shopping at the Pop-Up shop. Your purchases are making it possible for a survivor to receive over two weeks of employment, holistic care, and services in Rethreaded’s Survivor Development Program. Each of the 80 attendees was touched by the powerful witness of hurt, hope, and healing expressed by Stephanie as she shared her path to restoration after being trafficked. A big thank you to everyone who attended and for your generosity. The total amount collected for Rethreaded is $1552.00
How Your Donation Changes Lives at Rethreaded
Anticipated cost for the Survivor Development Program for Fiscal Year 2023-2024
- $17.10 = 30 minutes of employment, holistic care and services for one survivor
- $34.33 = one hour of employment, holistic care and services for one survivor
- $51.43 = 90 minutes of employment, holistic care and services for one survivor
- $102.99 = 3 hours of employment, holistic care and services for one survivor
- $257.48 = one day of employment, holistic care and services for one survivor
- $583.61 = one hour of employment, holistic care and services for all survivors in our program
- $1,287 = one week of employment, holistic care and services for one survivor
- $4,377.16 = one day of employment, holistic care and services for all survivors in our program
- $5,148 = one month of employment, holistic care and services for one survivor
- $21,879 = one week of employment, holistic care and services for all survivors in our program
- $57,122 = one year of employment, holistic care and services for one survivor
- $87,516 = one month of employment, holistic care and services for all survivors in our program
- $971,088 = one year of employment, holistic care and services for all survivors in our program
The Feast of the Visitation on May 31 celebrates the meeting of two mothers—Mary and Elizabeth—both with a child hidden within their wombs.
Scripture tells us that, following the Annunciation, Mary set out in haste to visit her cousin Elizabeth, who was pregnant (Lk 1:39). Despite being pregnant herself, Mary undertook the long and likely difficult journey to be at Elizabeth’s side. The Blessed Mother’s example demonstrates supporting and accompanying mothers, especially those who may be experiencing challenging or difficult circumstances. Yet in a culture that disproportionately values independence and self-reliance, mothers in need are too often left isolated and alone, not knowing where to turn for support or assistance. Mary provides a model of how we, as Catholics, are called to come alongside such mothers. (USCCB Respect Life)
One out of every five couples in America suffers from infertility issues. This means in the United States, 7.3 million women of childbearing years, are infertile. Infertility affects people from every racial, ethnic, religious, and socioeconomic level. Read more on For Your Marriage by visiting https://www.foryourmarriage.org/.
The most important person on earth is a mother. She cannot claim the honor of having built Notre Dame Cathedral. She need not. She has built something more magnificent than any cathedral—a dwelling for an immortal soul, the tiny perfection of her baby’s body— The angels have not been blessed with such a grace. They cannot share in God’s creative miracle to bring new saints to Heaven. Only a human mother can. Mothers are closer to God the Creator than any other creature; God joins forces with mothers in performing this act of creation… What on God’s good earth is more glorious than this; to be a mother?
Venerable Jozsef Cardinal Mindszenty
Loving God, we lift up to you all those who are hurting today especially those who are yearning to have a child. May this longing be filled with hope and desire to seek ways to bear fruit and be a channel of your grace. We also lift up those who are mourning and have lost a child. May they be healed mind, body and soul.
May the example of Mary, mother of Jesus, inspire them to live their vocation as spiritual mothers. Guide and protect them in challenging times and help them to continue to trust in you all the days of their life. Grant this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Grant this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Supporting Infertility & Pregnancy Loss on Mother’s Day
For all whose hearts ache from the sin of abortion: that God will soothe and heal them with the balm of his mercy; For mothers broken by the memory of a child lost to abortion: that through the intercession of the Mother of God, the gentle and merciful love of God may heal their innermost being; For everyone who is haunted by the memory of abortion: that they might know repentance, mercy, and peace; We pray to the Lord: Lord, hear our prayer.
Intercessory prayers (USCCB)
WHY SO MANY RED ROSES FOR THE SPECIFIC DATE OF JANUARY 22nd?
In Loving Memory of the Innocent Victims of Roe v. Wade
1 Red Rose for Every Million Lives Lost –
Total of 64 Red Roses!
Jan. 22, 1973, Supreme Court issues its landmark Roe v. Wade decision establishing abortion rights in 1973.
June 24, 2022, the Supreme Court issued its landmark Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision overturning Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey.
[We need] To redouble our efforts to accompany women and couples who are facing unexpected or difficult pregnancies, and during the early years of parenthood, offering them loving and compassionate care through initiatives such as Walking with Moms in Need and countless others. https://www.usccb.org/resources/statement-standing-with-moms-031522.pdf Our diaper and wipes drive in 2022 supported Walking with Moms in Need. This is just one example of participating in this program.
A True Sign of Our Faith…
…on full display within feet of A Woman’s Choice, an abortion clinic in Jacksonville (rainbow umbrellas). Approximately 90 people joined in the celebration of Mass on the Feast of the Holy Innocents led by Father Ed Murphy, followed by Eucharistic Adoration for an end to abortion.
Memorial for Our Children
On Thursday, December 29th, a number of our deceased children, born and unborn, were commemorated at St. Francis. Names written in our Memorial Book, a candle lit for each child, relevant petitions prayed for during the Communion Service, and a Eucharistic Adoration hour were all part of this Memorial.
Respect Life Collection
This once-a-year collection is sent to the Diocese of St. Augustine for distribution to pregnancy centers, maternity homes, and healing after-abortion programs within our Diocese that are fulfilling works of mercy for those in need. Twenty percent of funds collected remain at St. Francis for our Human Life & Dignity ministry. Envelopes are located in the narthex. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
This retreat is for couples who have experienced the loss of a child through miscarriage, stillbirth, and after birth as an infant, child, adolescent, or adult and is hosted by Red Bird Ministries in partnership with the Diocese of St. Augustine, FL. The opening speaker, Bishop Erik Pohlmeier of the Diocese of St. Augustine, will speak on the topic of suffering, and founders Ryan and Kelly Breaux will share their testimony and facilitate the weekend. Over the weekend, the team of Red Bird Ministries will lead couples in age-specific loss groups on a journey toward healing. Families will have access to spiritual direction, counseling sessions, small group conversations, and private couple time. This healing retreat offers a valuable opportunity for support and healing that you won’t want to miss.
On Saturday, November 30th communities around the world will remember the day in 1786 when the Grand Duchy of Tuscany became the first civil state in the world to do away with torture and capital punishment. In 2002, in memory of this anniversary, a Christian organization began promoting the Cities for Life Day to support the abolition of the death penalty.
Since America ranks fifth for the number of executions worldwide, just behind China, Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia, it’s a good day to pause and think about our ideas regarding capital punishment. We can pray for the perpetrators and their victims. Learn something new about the issue, for example, the Innocence Project and the Equal Justice Initiative which works with death row inmates who may be innocent of the crime they were accused of committing. Research information about restorative justice, an approach to justice which focuses on reconciliation among the parties involved since punitive measures do not result in the perpetrator following social norms in the future. It is also very healing for the victim of the crime.
On this day, cities illuminate a symbolic monument to highlight the value of each life. To join them, light a candle at church or one in your own home in honor of the souls that have passed and for the victims.
The 35th Annual National Night of Prayer for Life will be celebrated in the US beginning at 9 pm on Sunday, December 8th and extending to 1:00 am on Monday, December 9th. During this time, people all over the country will be asking Our Blessed Mother as the Patroness of America and the Unborn, to protect life and the family, renew the Church, establish peace, and inspire courage in the soul of our nation. Consider lighting a candle at home while you pray a Rosary, the Chaplet of St. Michael, or prayers for unity or life. You may also like to do virtual Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament online to enhance your prayer time. Let us join together with our brothers and sisters across our nation before Our Lord in prayer!
A Rachel’s Vineyard weekend retreat is a beautiful opportunity for any man or woman who is struggling with the emotional and spiritual pain of an abortion in their life. Come and receive peace, forgiveness of self and others, and the compassion of God. These retreats are private, strictly confidential, and for people of all faiths. Our next retreat dates will be on Dec. 5th -7th, 2024. For more information, call (904) 221-3232 or email rachelsvineyardjax@yahoo.com. All communication is confidential. Come and be restored!
Gifts from generous parishioners were delivered the Friday before Mothers’ Day to the St. Gerard Campus in St. Augustine as part of the Project Isobel outreach. The five resident teen mothers each received a gift bag including $100 in Walmart gift cards and a baby-safe Rosie Posie pearl necklace. The campus center was grateful for the (7) handmade baby blankets, and (8) sets of baby booties and hats with cards that read “made with love; each stitch a prayer.” The campus center, which not only serves its resident teen Moms but also the community-at-large, received an additional donation of $1,365.00. Center staff were very appreciative of the donations, remarking that this boosts not only their coffers but also warms their hearts. Thank you, St. Francis!
SFA EVENTS
Join us on December 5th after the 9:00 am daily mass when we will remember to pray especially for the right to life from conception to natural death. With so many attacks on the dignity of the person, it’s good to take time to ask Our Lord to pour out His graces on all in our country and to form us into a true Culture of Life!
9:30 A.M. on First Thursday of the Month
Copies of prayers are available on the table in the narthex.
First Thursday Eucharistic Adoration
Join us for our monthly First Thursday Eucharistic Adorations after the 9:00 am Mass as we pray for the advancement of a Culture of Life in our town and beyond and for the needs of those experiencing Reproductive Loss, Abortion, Human Trafficking, the Death Penalty, End of Life issues, and Special Needs. Printed prayers will be available for your assistance in expressing your petitions.
The Catholic Church proclaims that human life is sacred and that the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral vision for society (USCCB).
PRAYERS FOR LIFE
Our thanks to all who generously participated in our baby bottle campaign! Donations totaled $6,981.83! This amount will assist the Women’s Help Center and St. Gerard Campus in their mission to provide hope and compassion, along with support services, to those facing an unplanned pregnancy and to protect the unborn!
At the onset of the campaign, we had a total of 300 bottles to distribute. Approximately 228 have been returned, leaving 72 unaccounted for. These bottles will be reused by other churches for their campaigns.
If you still have a bottle, please return it with or without a donation. Bottles can be given to an usher before Mass, dropped in the designated container in the narthex or quiet room, or delivered to the office. It is important to receive these bottles back since they are used at other locations; this helps to offset the cost of purchasing new bottles from the pregnancy center. Thank you for supporting the Women’s Help Center and St. Gerard Campus.
On the last Sunday of every month, the rosary will be prayed for the protection of all life from conception to natural death. It begins at 7:30 am before the 8:00 am Mass. Please join us! If you would like to be part of this ministry of leading the congregation in the praying of this rosary, contact Ami Gold at agold54@gmail.com
NEWS & INFORMATION
GENDER AND THEOLOGY OF THE BODY
If you missed the presentation on June 21st 2023, the Diocese has provided access to the webinar by Jason Everret online through the Diocese of St. Augustine Office of Family Life. Click HERE for FB link.
The Catholic Church proclaims that human life is sacred and that the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral vision for society.
Physician Assisted Suicide
Obstacles that diminish our sense of the profound intrinsic value of every human life:
“Quality of Life” – …life is viewed as worthwhile only if it has, in the judgment of the individual or of third parties, an acceptable degree of quality as measured by the possession or lack of particular psychological or physical functions, or sometimes simply by the presence of psychological discomfort.
A False Understanding of “compassion” – …it is better to die than to suffer… In reality, human compassion consists not in causing death, but in embracing the sick, supporting them in their difficulties, in offering them affection, attention, and the means to alleviate their suffering.
Physician Assisted Suicide is legal in Washington DC (’16) & 9 states: California (’15), Colorado (’16), Hawaii (’18), Maine (’19), New Jersey (‘19), New Mexico (’21), Oregon (’97), Vermont (’13), and Washington (’08).
One state, Montana (’09) has legal physician-assisted suicide via court ruling.
Additional information, such as annual reports, on states with physician-assisted suicide can be found HERE
Excerpts from Articles – May 2022
Reflects the Importance of Being an Advocate for Life
Delaware: House Bill 140, legalizing physician-assisted suicide in Delaware, is on the House Agenda for Thursday, May 19, 2022. The Catholic Diocese of Wilmington along with a coalition of other faith communities, organizations, and advocates for the elderly, sick, and persons with disabilities have been working against various versions of this bill for years. This vote is critical.
By Delaware Catholic Advocacy Network
CURRENT STATUS: As of July 7th – https://deathwithdignity.org/states/
Feature Article from “The Dialog”
Massachusetts: With a shrinking window of time left in the legislative session, the Massachusetts Catholic Conference is urging the faithful to speak out against pending legislation that would legalize physician-assisted suicide in the Commonwealth. (The Pilot, America’s Oldest Catholic Newspaper
UPDATE: As of July 7th – The Joint Committee on Health Care Financing has extended their consideration of The End of Life Options Act (H.2381/S.1384) to July 31st. https://deathwithdignity.org/states/
END-OF-LIFE PRESENTATION
On Thursday, March 16th, 2023 at 6:00 pm, the St. Michael’s Respect Life ministry hosted internationally acclaimed speaker, Fr. Tad Pacholczyk, from the National Catholic Bioethics Center. His presentation focused on End of Life Decision Making: Physician Assisted Suicide, Euthanasia, Pain Management, and Hospice.
Decline to Sign Petitions for Dangerous Pro-Abortion Ballot Initiative
An extremely grave initiative is underway in Florida that seeks to erase pro-life protections by banning government regulation of abortion in our state constitution. A network of abortion activists is working to gather petition signatures to have a pro-abortion constitutional amendment placed on the statewide ballot in the November 2024 election. In order to do so, they need nearly 900,000 thousand signatures and are working right now in communities across Florida to collect them.
This amendment is deeply concerning because it will allow all abortions to be obtained until viability and includes a broad “health” loophole, essentially allowing abortion on demand up to birth. The amendment would hinder the Florida legislature’s ability to protect women and children from abortion. It could also nullify current laws requiring parental consent before minors obtain abortions and a 24-hour waiting period prior to abortions, as well as the 15-week and 6-week abortion laws recently passed by the legislature.
Floridians should not sign the petition. Declining to sign is not impeding the democratic process; it is taking a stand against what would be a terrible state policy. The FCCB is following developments in the initiative process closely and diligently preparing to help defeat it. Continue your prayers for the protection of the unborn and spread the word to your spheres of influence.
Thank you for helping to protect and respect all human life, especially the most vulnerable.
During the month of June, often designated as PRIDE month, we’ll be bombarded with viewpoints regarding sexuality that are contrary to our Catholic beliefs. Where does a faithful Catholic turn for help and support when questioning their sexuality or when family members or friends are struggling with this issue?
Archbishop Fulton Sheen once said that millions of people hate what they wrongly believe to be the Catholic Church. How true this is for the Church’s teaching on sexuality, but the wisdom and truth of the Catholic Church regarding chastity are ageless and freeing.
During this month of June, let us take advantage of this opportunity to get educated or renewed in our understanding, so we can be a beacon of wisdom and knowledge as we face the issues surrounding LBGTQ+. In this five-part half-hour each film series, we can explore the Catholic teaching on a wide range of questions connected to same-sex attraction. The series begins with a look at the lived reality of women and men who experience same-sex attraction, who are ultimately drawn to the power and interior peace found in the virtue of chastity. Gain insights into the meaning of sex, rooted in natural law, research about homosexuality that often confounds our cultural understanding and ways for families to compassionately journey with their loved ones.
It’s all free! GO TO FORMED.ORG and search for “INVITED TO COURAGEOUS LOVE.” If you’re not signed up, go to: signup.formed.org, enter 32097, select St. Francis, and add your name and email address. Check your email from FORMED.
Come Holy Spirit – set our hearts on fire with your Love for each person.
Courage is a spiritual support group for men and women who identify as LGBTQ. The primary goal of this group is for its members to live chaste lives in accordance with the teachings of the Catholic Church. Encourage is a spiritual support group for their family members and friends who desire to understand their experiences and how to respond with compassion. It also welcomes anyone seeking pastoral care options. Guest speakers, such as local psychologists, therapists, and physicians usually address the meetings. Both groups are directed by Fr. Ed Murphy from Holy Faith Catholic Church in Gainesville who can be contacted at fr.ed@holyfaithchurch.org or (904)874-8319 for meeting times and places. To learn more, view the informative Courage website at www.couragerc.org.
ABOUT COURAGE
“These men and women testify to the power of grace, the nobility and resilience of the human heart.” — Cardinal Robert Sarah
Courage members are men and women who experience same-sex attractions and who have made a commitment to strive for chastity. They are inspired by the Gospel call to holiness and the Catholic Church’s beautiful teachings about the goodness and inherent purpose of human sexuality.
Through our apostolate, people who experience same-sex attraction receive pastoral support in the form of spiritual guidance, community prayer support, and fellowship.
Courage Chapter: Jacksonville, Florida – Contact: Fr. Ed Murphy
Phone: (904) 797-4842 E-mail: ewmurphy59@gmail.com
ABOUT ENCOURAGE
“Love and sacrifice are closely linked, like the sun and the light. We cannot love without suffering and we cannot suffer without love.” — Saint Gianna Beretta Molla”
EnCourage members are parents, spouses, sibling and friends of people who identify as LGBTQ. They are looking for help to keep the faith and keep their family bonds intact.
EnCourage members work together to understand the experiences of their loved ones, and to respond to them with compassion. They know that it is possible to express love for someone even if we can’t support all of their choices or actions. They find spiritual guidance to grow in their relationship with Christ, and community support from other members that helps them remember that they are not alone on this journey.
Contact: Fr. Ed Murphy
Phone: (904) 797-4842
E-mail: ewmurphy59@gmail.com
Website: http://www.courageofjacksonville.org
Catholic Days at the CapitolSave the Date – February 6th – 7th, 2024
Florida’s Bishops invite you to join them in Tallahassee to advocate for the protection of human life and dignity as lawmakers continue the important work of shaping Florida’s laws and future for the common good. Each year during the legislative session, Catholics from across the state gather in Florida’s capital city to put their faith and civic responsibility into action.
Add’l Information: Diocese of St. Augustine, Mike Day, (904) 262-3200 ext. 156, mday@dosafl.com; https://life.dosafl.com/cdac/
Protecting Pain-Capable Unborn Children from Late-Term Abortion Act
On Tuesday, September 13th, Senator Lindsey Graham introduced an updated version of his former 20-week federal ban on abortion. The strong scientific and medical agreement that unborn children feel pain by 15 weeks gestation provides the rationale for the current legislation which would ban most abortions nationwide after 15 weeks, except in cases of rape, incest, or when the life of the mother is in danger.
READ THE ACT IN FULL
In his letter to the House of Representatives dated January 10, 2023, the Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge, Bishop of Arlington and Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, urged the representatives to vote in favor of the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act (H.R. 26).
Highlights from Bishop Burbidge’s Letter are as follows:
“With respect to children born alive upon a failed abortion, some states’ laws ensure that proper medical attention is given to those babies, but others do not and some, namely Illinois and New York, have even taken steps to eliminate such protections.”
“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that at least 143 born infants died after an attempted abortion between 2003 and 2014, and conceded that this may well be an underestimate.1 Such events may not be reached by some states’ homicide laws, especially if they are considered the natural result of legally permissible inaction rather than an active killing.”
https://lozierinstitute.org/questions-and-answers-on-born-alive-abortion-survivors/
Result of the Vote
As reported, the House passed this bill on Wednesday, January 11th, 2023, by a vote of 220-210-1.
ELDERLY VISITS
The Human Life and Dignity Ministry visits and spends time with the elderly in our parish who are home bound or reside in assisted living facilities to pray the Rosary, read the Bible or just talk and listen. If you know of anyone who would welcome such a visit, please contact Mary or Kevin Thompson, or Erie Santiago at:
The Mausoleum for the Precious Ones is a resting place dedicated to the lives of unborn children in this diocese who have died while still in the womb, taken from this earth to their eternal resting place, prematurely. This mausoleum is a testimony of the Diocese of St Augustine’s respect for the dignity of all human life. It will also create a space for families to visit their precious ones and seek quiet healing. Please prayerfully consider making a gift in support of this project today.
https://www.givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/acp648b24d440fd3/user/guest
Gifts can also be mailed to:
Catholic Center
Attn: Office of Human Life & Dignity
11625 Old St. Augustine Rd.
Jacksonville, FL 32258
Is our Lord calling you to protect life and defend the rights of mothers and their unborn children? If so, join Our Ministry of Life! Women’s Help Center has openings for Client Advocates at our Callahan and Jacksonville Westside locations. The Client Advocate works with women facing an unexpected pregnancy and provides them with life-affirming options to abortion. These are paid, part-time positions, with some Saturday hours required. Full training is provided. Competence in Microsoft Office is preferred but not essential.
Send a resume and cover letter to helpcenter@whcjax.com, or call 904.398.5143 for additional information.
Are you looking for a fulfilling volunteer opportunity? Join our team and help save lives! Women’s Help Center in Callahan is seeking volunteer receptionists and client advocates who are passionate about defending the unborn and their mothers. Our volunteer roles require a 2-hour minimum weekly or bi-weekly commitment Monday – Friday between 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Full training is provided. Call Teresa, Callahan Center Manager, at 904-401-6865, for more information. Visit www.whcjax.com to learn more about our ministry.
Women’s’ Help Center
541841 U.S. Highway 1, Callahan
Your generous contributions to our Baby Bottle Campaign yielded a $5,000 donation to the Women’s Help Center in Callahan. The men of St. Francis of Assisi were recognized and a grateful thank you was given by Nancy Basham, the Executive Director, for the extensive number of volunteer hours of labor in preparing the building for the Center’s opening. On Tuesday, October 26th, Bishop Felipe J. Estevez, as the guest of honor, led all in prayer, during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The Knights of Columbus Council 14295 (St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Mission and St. Michael Catholic Church) presented a gift of $14,750 for a state-of-art ultrasound machine. The Knights Supreme Council will provide matching funds for a total cost of $29,500.
Project Isobel – St. Gerard Campus
Project Isobel is an annual opportunity for our parish faith community to support teen mothers who have chosen LIFE for their unborn babies. Young mothers at the St. Gerard’s campus in St. Augustine will receive gifts from our parish in celebration of Mother’s Day! Some of these gifts include lovingly handmade blankets, booties, and hats made by our Prayer Shawl Ministry.
If you choose to help, please:
- Pray for these new Moms! They will benefit tremendously from your prayerful support.
- Donate a $10 Walmart gift card by placing it an envelope marked “Project Isobel” and placing the envelope in the weekend Masses’ collection basket. (Please do not drop the gift card by the church office – the best way to ensure your gift is delivered is to place it in a marked envelope in the collection basket. Thank you!)
- Plan to participate in the presentation of gifts to the teen Moms! Date to be determined. Please contact Liz Milo at ermfl@att.net with your questions, ideas, and interests.
Thank you!
Isobel Bento Correia Motta was born in 1897 and died in 1956. She was the grandmother of parishioner, Sandy Pineault. Isobel had three children, one of whom, a son, died at a year and a half. Her daughter, Angelina, was Sandy’s mother. Isobel treasured her children. Her last son was born in tragic circumstances, and she honored his life though her own life was falling apart. That child was taken from her and never knew of his mother or of her love for him until the age of 77 when through genealogical research Sandy found him and reunited him with the family he never knew was his.
Sandy’s reverence and love for this unknown grandmother followed her all her life, and it is Sandy’s belief that Isobel led her in the search for Isobel’s story while all the time leading her to her son. It was not a far leap to name Project Isobel for her grandmother who safely nurtured her last child beneath her heart and delivered him into life.
On May 10th, Beverly Crowley and Sandy Pineault visited St. Gerard Campus in St Augustine. They delivered to the 17 young mothers and Carol Wolff, the Director, funds totaling $2,205. Each of the girls received a Mother’s Day present for herself and her baby to thank and encourage her for choosing the gift of life. The funds collected for infrastructure needs included a donation toward their year-end graduation ceremonies. The Respect Life Ministry would like to thank the following ministries for their generous monetary participation: The Women’s Group, The Men’s Group, Spirituality, Events, Charity, and Bingo. A special thank you to the Needlework Group for making the baby blankets, hats and booties, Pat Deacon for making the make-up cases, Jenny Hebert for making the bracelets and to all those individuals who provided gift cards.
St. Francis of Assisi “Mother’s Day 2022” at St. Gerard Campus
Thank you for your generous donations to the moms at St. Gerard. We collected $775 and were able to bless them with gifts and gift cards to show our support for them and their decisions to choose life. Thank you!
Graduation Day at St. Gerard’s
A Message from St. Gerard’s Campus:
A Message from St. Gerard’s Campus: St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Mission Parish sponsors Project Isobel through its Respect Life Committee each year. The goal of Project Isobel is to offer the young mothers at St. Gerard’s a short time of pampering just for themselves. It all happens on the Friday before Mother’s Day each year and it deeply touches the hearts of all who take the pilgrimage all the way out to St. Augustine. For those who support this event with small items and gift cards we thank you. This past week a very special thank you message came from Miss Carol (Caroline Wolff ),the charismatic founder and director of St. Gerard’s. I share this with you now. Project Isobel delivers its gifts two weeks before these young women, some as young as 14 years of age, graduate from the high school program at St. Gerard’s. The graduation is a full throated celebration of success and life. But, this year, that graduation was in financial peril. The Director, staff and young mothers decided to pool all of the gift certificates from St.Francis and lo and behold, they had enough to make this graduation ceremony take place!! Over 300 family and friends gathered to watch 14 young women with their babies in their arms receive their diplomas and then throw their caps in the air. For many families this was the first high school graduation they had ever celebrated. Culminating this ceremony: a young father went up on the stage and proposed to his lady and their child!
These young women were leaving the safe sanctuary that had sheltered them to return to often perilous situations. They were leaving knowing they were loved by a small mission Parish way out in a corner of Yulee. A small mission Parish reached out from their corner all the way to an unassuming cluster of buildings called St. Gerard’s in a corner of St. Augustine whose soul indeed Magnifies the Lord.
This is the fifth year of Project Isobel. It is my honor to have founded it five years ago in the name of my Grandmother as a tribute to her own courage for Life. I am deeply touched as others come forward to do the work now. Next year, Project Isobel will go parish wide and offer everyone the chance to participate in this moment of Grace. We here at St. Francis have a big wide open heart. Naysayers for Life often criticize those who work to protect LIFE saying there is no real reaching out but rather only noise. We know that not to be true, we at St. Francis, we of the big, wide open heart.
God’s blessing for the support of so many including those outside of St. Francis whose generosity has been there year after year. We thank, also, those who gave to the Baby Bottle Campaign which gifted St. Gerard’s generously this year.
Sandy Pineault- Founder of Project Isobel
Diane Shipper – 2018 Chair for Project Isobel
Beverly Crowley and Bunny Smithson- 2018 Chairs of the Respect Life Ministry at St. Francis Mission Parish.
This story of practical love for life was presented last week at the annual meeting of the Pontifical Academy for Life in the Vatican to encourage members and the Holy See in their effort to make life welcomed, nurtured and protected always and everywhere and by everyone.
Many of you know that Project Isobel is near and dear to me and is named for my grandmother. It benefits St.Gerard’s Campus each year for Mother’s Day. This is its fifth year and it is sponsored by the Respect Life Ministry at our parish: St. Francis of Assisi Mission Church in Yulee, Florida. Each year we gift the group of brave young mothers at St. Gerard’s with pampering gifts just for them. We meet them and often their babies in a grace-filled moment. St. Gerard’s is in St. Augustine and is unique in that it provides a Christian high school as well as shepherding these young women through their pregnancies. This year it turns out that with the gift cards we included we were able to sponsor their very special high school graduation. Pictured here are Jim Crowley, a member of the Pontifical Academy for Life at the Vatican (and a member of our Parish and husband of our Parish Respect Life Committee Co-Chair Beverly Crowley) ) presenting a summary of a letter that details Project Isobel and its work. Jim said that the Commission really likes hearing about grassroots endeavors for Life such as St.Gerard’s and Project Isobel. For me, it was the grace that this little Parish project could reach all the way to the hallowed halls of the Vatican. Here is Pope Francis blessing that letter.
Sandra Souza Pineaut
We thank everyone who chose to accept a pin the weekend of October 29/30. Over 320 were distributed. As stated by the presenter, “The response from our parish was overwhelmingly positive and encouraging.” In fact, since then we have received many comments. One woman asked for 20 additional pins to give to 10 families/friends for Christmas, so each person can keep one and give another to someone else, thus spreading the message. Another person related that the father of a young man suggested his son give the pin to a friend who is unmarried and pregnant.
Grand Illusions, The Legacy of Planned Parenthood-Fourth Edition (George Grant)
Why Pro-Life? (Rand Alcorn)
Pro-Life Answers to Pro-Choice Arguments (Randy Alcorn) (This book has a couple of graphic pictures and needs to be kept away from children.)
Persuasive Pro-Life (Trent Horn)
What to Say When (Carney & Karlen)
Speaking for the Unborn – 30 Second Pro-Life Rebuttals to Pro-Choice Arguments (Steven A. Christie, M.D., J.D.
Forbidden Grief: The Unspoken Pain of Abortion (Theresa Burke w/David C. Reardon) (Revised & Updated)
Redeeming A Father’s Heart: Men Share Powerful Stories of Abortion Loss & Recovery (Kevin Burke, LSW, David Wernhoff, Marvin Stockwell)
From Fallen to Forgiven (Jennifer O’Neill)
