Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Buenos Aires (Agenzia Fides) - “The Holy Father has invited everyone to hold a prayer vigil for the unborn on November 27, at the beginning of Advent, to thank God for the complete gift of Himself that has given meaning to all human life and for invoking the protection of every human being called into existence.” Thus begins the statement published by the Argentinean Bishops' Conference, with which they ask the entire Catholic community to join in celebrating the Year for Life during 2011.
The bishops refer to the document on the Bicentennial. "As stated in the document 'Towards a Bicentennial in Justice and Solidarity', when discussing the gift of life, 'we refer to the life of every person at every stage, from conception to natural death', and in all its dimensions: physical, spiritual, familial, social, political, religious, etc.. "
The note explains how the time is propitious for this effort: "As pastors and citizens, we want to insist, in this Bicentennial Year and especially during 2011, on the imperative to give priority in our country to the right to life in all its manifestations, with particular attention to the unborn child, as well as to our brothers who grow up amidst poverty and marginalization."
The bishops conclude: "We believe that we cannot build a nation for everyone, if our country's policies do not protect this basic right for everyone, without exception: the right to life from conception, protecting the life of the pregnant mother, until natural death. We must find ways of ensuring the life of the mother and the unborn child." (CE) (Agenzia Fides 09/11/2010)
