not equivalent; Courtesy of the Sisters of Life
29 August 2022, 8:00 a.m., Washington, DC Newsroom (CNA).
The Sisters of Life, religious women committed to promote the intrinsic dignity and value of every human being, offer hope to pregnant women who may believe that abortion is their only choice.
“In every woman’s heart is the need to be heard. To be comprehended. Sr. Marie Veritas, SV, told CNA, “To be believed in.” “To be recognized for her one-of-a-kind beauty and goodness… beauty and goodness that she all too often fails to recognize in herself.”
Now more than ever, according to the nuns, they are committed to promoting a culture of life.
In response to the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization to overturn Roe v. Wade, which nationwide allowed abortion, the sisters vowed to “renew our commitment to love.”
The sisters’ statement said, “[W]e commit to those ladies who are pregnant and in difficulty that they will not have to go alone.” “We are confident that this Supreme Court ruling will give many more women the courage to call out to those of good will around the country who are willing to assist a woman in need who is facing real obstacles, difficulties, and anxieties.”
And when these ladies do call out for assistance, the sisters pledge to be there for them.
In 1991, the late Cardinal John O’Connor established the Sisters of Life in New York. In addition to the New York metropolitan area, they have offices in Denver, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Washington, D.C., and Ontario, Canada. The religious women of the Catholic faith take four vows: poverty, chastity, obedience, and “to safeguard and develop the sanctity of human life.”
The sisters devote their lives, among other things, to serving women at risk of abortion, providing life-affirming support to pregnant women in need, conducting retreats, evangelizing, engaging in outreach to college students, and assisting those who suffer after abortion.
Sr. Marie Veritas enumerated eight messages of hope that the sisters wish to convey to every pregnant mother who is struggling and considering an abortion. This woman should realize that her aspirations are not unattainable, she began.
Sr. Marie Veritas advised, “There are viable solutions that will get you back on your feet so that you never regret what may have been.” You need not feel compelled to undergo an abortion.
In addition, she emphasized that “circumstances might change.”
“This pregnancy could not have arrived at a more inconvenient time,” she remarked. “Perhaps you anticipate that your family will be dissatisfied and that they won’t support you. You fear that your hopes and ambitions for the future will never materialize. Hope carries the promise of a new beginning despite the reality of your existing situation.”
She advised women to “Give yourself space” before to making a decision.
“Impulsive choices may result in regret,” she warned. “Our best decisions are made when our hearts are at ease. Allow yourself sufficient time to gather all relevant information and thoroughly consider your options. There is still time to create a plan that will lead you to freedom and a decision you won’t come to regret.”
In addition, she emphasized that women are not alone: “Secret decisions lead to grief,” she remarked, adding, “You are not alone.”
She stated, “Women confronting an unplanned pregnancy may feel embarrassed and ashamed.” “Their initial impulse is to conceal their ‘error’ or’resolve the issue’ before anyone discovers it. This frequently results in regret.”
She encouraged women to seek assistance.
“You are not alone on this road,” stated Sister Marie Veritas. Take your time and enable us to link you with individuals who have experienced similar circumstances and are willing to share their views.
She wanted women to know that, on behalf of the sisters, “We believe in you.”
“You have ambitions for your life, and having a child may not fit into those plans at this time,” she stated. “However, the mystery of new life within you may be powerful and a fantastic source of encouragement to complete your education, pursue a job, and become the woman you were destined to be.”
While a pregnant lady may receive conflicting advice, the nuns advised her to “follow her heart.”
Sr. Marie Veritas stated, “Everyone around you may have formed an opinion about what you should do.” “Ignore the negative voices that obscure the reality of your decency, your dignity as a woman, and your immense capacity to love. Let us assist you in discovering what will bring you the most happiness.”
In other words, the sisters advise women to “Look past their concerns to their potential.”
“Fear is a very powerful emotion,” stated Sr. Marie Veritas. “At times, we may be duped into living based on unreasonable or false worries. This can be paralyzing, preventing us from taking constructive efforts towards a solution. Additionally, it may impair our judgment and lead us wrong. Significant or life-altering choices are best made in peace and independence.”
Gratitude to the Sisters of Life
“Let’s speak and find a solution you can live with,” she ended.
She stated, “Our vast array of resources includes housing, employment, medical assistance, legal counsel, and emotional and spiritual support.” During a tough moment, we are here to listen, answer your questions, explore your options, and walk with you as you discover actual possibilities. You deserve a safe environment in which to express your experiences and concerns.”
Women learn more about the Sisters of Life online and reach out to them for assistance. Women can contact 1-877-777-1277 or text 212-203-8777 for pregnancy assistance.
How can pro-life Americans and Catholics support the sisters?
Sr. Marie Veritas stated that in order to carry out their pro-life ministry, the sisters “rely entirely on Divine Providence for the spiritual and temporal sustenance of our lives and missions.”
In addition, she stated that the sisters feel lucky to be supported by so many wonderful individuals globally. She encouraged both men and women to consider working with Co-Workers of Life.
She stated that these coworkers work directly with the ladies the nuns help. They are urged to volunteer their time and skills to assist the sisters in a variety of ways, including as by befriending women experiencing difficult pregnancies, serving as prayer guardians, or contributing their professional skills as lawyers, health care professionals, or counselors.
Sr. Marie Veritas also advised individuals to view the sisters’ formation program titled “INTO LIFE: Love Changes Everything.” In partnership with the McGrath Institute for Church Life and CampCampo films, the sisters developed a video series on how to accompany a pregnant woman into life.
Sr. Marie Veritas stated that the nuns also accept donations.
She continued, “We also need new or gently used maternity items, primarily in sizes medium through extra-large.”
Prim and foremost, Sr. Marie Veritas requested prayers.
“We would love to invite everyone to join us in praying, fasting, and witnessing for life,” she said, “by praying that every person knows that he or she is made in the image and likeness of God, a unique reflection of His glory; that the life of those who are most vulnerable to abortion be protected and upheld; that women be cherished in their motherhood; that those who have experienced abortion in their lives come to know the tender mercy and healing of Jesus Christ, whose blood was shed for their sins