We had a very good halfway rally yesterday evening, with around 15-20 people participating. The rain held off until the event was concluded, and the vigil site was quiet and reflective, with grey skies overshadowing the proceedings. The clouds, however, did not dampen the spirits of participants, who shared stories and reflections about vigil experiences, sang hymns, and prayed together.
Special thanks to Fr. Michael Kelly of St. Mary Church, who provided spiritual leadership, and to Bob and Susan, vigil keepers who provided leadership for the music.
The rally started around 6pm, with an opening hymn, "Lord, Who Throughout These Forty Days," led by Bob on the guitar. Campaign leader Jacinta Whittaker welcomed everyone to the rally, and encouraged participants to keep working for life one step at a time. Fr. Kelly led some common prayers, and prayed a blessing over the vigil site, read a passage from the Gospel "As long as you did it to the least of my brethren, you did it to Me," and offered a short reflection on the meaning of vigil participation as service to Christ.
Following this, more hymns were sung, "Amazing Grace" and "O Sacred Head," led by Susan on the flute and Bob on the guitar. Vigil participants introduced themselves and shared stories and experiences, as well as thoughts on the vigil, which were followed by more prayers and vigil petitions. The closing hymn was then sung: "Lift High the Cross," led by Bob on the guitar.
Plenty of signs were available for attendees to use or take with them for a friend. If you or someone you know could use a vigil or yard sign, please contact Jacinta at jacinta.40days@gmail.com. We want to get the pro-life message all over our region!
All in all, it was a successful rally for life, and we look forward to our closing celebration, which will be on Sunday April 17 at 1:30pm at St. Lawrence Church!
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