Wednesday, January 20, 2016

9 Days for Life: January 20 Day 5: For an End to the Use of the Death Penalty



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DAY FIVE:
January 20, 2016
Intercession
For an end to the use of the death penalty in our country.

Prayers
Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

Reflection
As Catholics, we believe and put our hope in a merciful and loving God. We are conscious of our own brokenness and need for redemption. Our Lord calls us to imitate him more perfectly by witnessing to the inherent dignity of every person, including those whose actions have been despicable. Our faith and hope is in the mercy of God who says to us, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy” (Mt 5:7) and “I desire mercy, not sacrifice” (Mt 9:13). As Christians we are called to oppose the culture of death by witnessing to something greater and more perfect: a gospel of life, hope and mercy.
Acts of Reparation (choose one)
  • Clean a room in your house without being asked or without telling anyone. Pray for your family members while you clean, “[a]nd your Father who sees in secret will repay you” (Matthew 6:6).
  • Read about a Church teaching you don’t understand in the Catechism. 
  • Make an honest assessment of your “giving finances”—are you giving too little? Make a resolution to give a set weekly or monthly donation to your parish or favorite local charity.
One Step Further
For some people who are committed to upholding the sanctity of human life, the death penalty can present a challenge. Properly understood, however, Catholic teaching against the death penalty is both persuasive and eminently pro-life. Find out why in "Life Matters: A Catholic Response to the Death Penalty."
Order copies of this prayer card and other 2015-16 Respect Life Program materials in the USCCB Store!

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