Human
Life International, in partnership with the Nebraska Bishops' Pro-Life
Office and the Archdiocese of Omaha Respect Life Apostolate, is pleased
to sponsor a unique conference focused on the pro-life teachings of the
Catholic Church, "Life, Dignity, and Disability: A Faith that Welcomes,"
October 18-19 in Omaha, Nebraska.
Online registration (at www.inlifeandlove.org)
is now open for the event which will provide a theological foundation
on the dignity of the human person; explore relevant issues related to
life, dignity, and disabilities; and provide practical guidance and
resources in pastoral care. Clergy and religious, parents and
caregivers, and those who live out the social teaching of the Church are
encouraged to attend.
"HLI is thrilled to collaborate with the
Catholic Bishops of Nebraska in offering an exciting conference that
highlights the dignity and beauty of every human life, especially
persons with disabilities," said HLI President Father Shenan J. Boquet, a
featured speaker at the conference. "I invite the entire HLI community
to join the bishops and lay faithful of Nebraska to hear the excellent
lineup of speakers who are sure to inspire us and deepen our knowledge
of the faith."
Most
Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L., Bishop of Lincoln, will give the
keynote address, and Most Rev. George J. Lucas, Archbishop of Omaha,
will be the main celebrant at the conference's opening Mass.
Other
featured speakers include Peter Kreeft, prolific author and professor
at Boston College; Joseph Pearce, editor of Saint Austin Review; Omar
Gutierrez, manager of the Office of Missions and Justice at Archdiocese
of Omaha; Sr. Terese Auer, O.P., chair of the Bioethics Department at
John Paul the Great Catholic High School; Patty Franke, Be Not Afraid
Ministry; Sarah and Jeff Schinstock, Family Life Office of the Diocese
of Lincoln; Martin Cannon and Andy Bath, Saint Thomas More Society; and
Arland K. Nichols, director of education and evangelization at Human
Life International.
"The
Nebraska Bishops' Pro Life Office is very pleased to collaborate with
Human Life International in sponsoring 'Life, Dignity and Disability: A
Faith that Welcomes,' said Greg Schleppenbach, state director of the
Nebraska Catholic Conference Bishops' Pastoral Plan for Pro Life
Activities. "Amidst a culture that dismisses its weakest members as
problems or burdens to be eliminated, this event provides a wonderful
opportunity to proclaim and celebrate the sacred dignity of every human
life, especially those who are weakest and most defenseless."
"Scripture
tells us the importance of respecting all life. A favorite chant of the
Archdiocese of Omaha students who attend the March for Life in
Washington, D.C., talks about the need for prayer and sacrifice. On
behalf of the Respect Life Apostolate of the Archdiocese of Omaha, we
offer prayers and sacrifices for the success of the 'Life, Dignity and
Disability' conference," said Father Walter Nolte, Archdiocese of Omaha
Respect Life Apostolate Chaplain.
The
conference kicks off Friday evening, October 18, with a dinner banquet
where Bishop Conley will give his keynote address. The Saturday schedule
begins with Holy Mass followed by a full day of inspiring
presentations.
For more information on the conference schedule and registration, visit the event website at www.inlifeandlove.org.
