Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

At the fifth annual Mass for Life in Orlando, Bishop John Noonan emphasized the theme of life as a gift and encouraged sharing this gift with others. The Mass took place on January 17, 2025, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe. During his homily, Bishop Noonan stated, "No human being is ever chosen by God. Every human being is blessed by God because you are created in the image and likeness of God." He stressed that each person is a gift from God.

Bishop Noonan expressed gratitude to those who voted against Amendment 4 in November, which would have impacted abortion regulations and parental rights concerning minors' decisions to terminate pregnancies. He referenced Pope Francis's encyclical Dilexit Nos or He loved us and questioned whether society has become heartless and indifferent. He cited global conflicts as examples of visible issues while pointing out unseen problems like violence against mothers and children.

Quoting Pope Benedict XVI from June 2008, Bishop Noonan said everyone needs a center for their life, drawing truth and goodness from Christ's presence. He connected his message to the Week of Christian Unity (January 18-25), stating that Jesus' heart lives within believers' hearts.

The bishop called on attendees to spread goodness globally, emphasizing unity through starting from the heart. Students from five diocesan high schools attended the event: Santa Fe in Lakeland, Bishop Moore in Orlando, Father Lopez in Daytona Beach, Trinity Catholic in Ocala, and Melbourne Central Catholic in Melbourne.

Nick LaTour from Trinity Catholic expressed surprise at the large congregation and shared how it reinforced his belief in respecting life. Ursula Canote from Santa Fe High School planned to share with her peers that "God is always here" and that hope remains steadfast according to Pope Francis.

Ursula also noted attending was significant due to it being the Jubilee Year of Hope—a time for repentance and recognizing life's worth. Her takeaway was about everyone's inherent worthiness for life and love regardless of religious affiliation.