Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Central Floridians gathered at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe in Orlando on January 19, 2024, for the Mass for Life. The event was attended by individuals from various Catholic parishes, pro-life agencies, and schools in the Diocese of Orlando.

Before the Mass, Father Edwin Cardona led the congregation in the Rosary of Our Lady of Sorrows, with prayers offered for single mothers, aborted children, the elderly, lawmakers, and more. Bishop John Noonan emphasized the importance of recognizing the sacredness of all life, stating, "We’ve come to know who we are, and that all life is sacred." He also expressed concern over the loss of hope and the sense of God's presence in society.

The Mass for Life was a solemn and powerful occasion, with participants joining together in prayer and reflection. Students from Bishop Moore Catholic High School were particularly moved by the experience. One freshman, Savannah, remarked, "It’s so amazing to see Catholics come together in an effort to protect the lives of everyone, from the unborn to the very old." JP Kuhlman, the school's Director of Mission Effectiveness, highlighted the passion and joy of the young people in promoting a Culture of Life.

Members of the Culture of Life Ministry at Most Precious Blood Parish in Oviedo attended the Mass to fulfill their desire to participate in communal prayer for the vulnerable. Eileen Janke, the ministry's facilitator, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to pray for a society where the right to life is paramount. Mary Catherine Deeter, another member of the ministry, echoed this sentiment.

Also present at the Mass was Ted Allington, who has been praying for an end to abortion for years. Allington shared how he often goes to Planned Parenthood to pray discreetly from his car, offering devotional prayers to the Blessed Mother and St. Joseph. He recalled a remarkable encounter when a woman, who had just left Planned Parenthood, discarded the pamphlets she had received in a nearby dumpster. This incident gave him hope that his prayers are making a difference.

Leidy Rivas, the director of Catholic Charities of Central Florida's Culture of Life ministry, closed the Mass by emphasizing the inherent dignity and worth of every individual from conception until natural death. She called upon everyone to advocate for and cherish all human life, including the unborn, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those marginalized by society.

The Mass for Life served as a reminder for Central Floridians of the sanctity of life and the importance of protecting and cherishing it at all stages. The event brought together people from different backgrounds and age groups, united in their commitment to promoting a Culture of Life.

Source: Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic staff, January 25, 2024