Ukrainian Catholic metropolitan of Philadelphia: "Tragedy confronts our thoughts as to the value of life"

"The recent tragic loss of life and well-being in Las Vegas and from the terrorism act in Edmonton, Canada, preceded by the loss of life and major hardships experienced as a result of hurricanes in the Caribbean Islands, Puerto Rico, Florida and Texas have caused all of us to reflect on the preciousness of life, Metropolitan and Archbishop of Philadelphia Stefan Soroka shared his reflections.

As we pray for the victims of these tragedies, we reflect on the gift of life each of us is given. One’s thoughts during prayers are filled with thanksgiving for the gift of life. We renew our personal resolve to value and cherish this precious gift of life shared with loved ones. Hopefully each of us will be motivated to give greater thought and commitment to efforts to value and protect life from the conception of life to natural death. Perhaps our best testimony to the innocent lives lost in the tragedies of recent weeks could be our own commitment to ensure respect for life from conception to natural death. 

The gift of life is endangered by destructive forces of nature, and the manipulative and controlling hearts and minds of humanity.  Innocent life is daily taken by those who advocate abortion and euthanasia. Our efforts are needed to support people in every stage of life.  Can we do more to advocate and assist those who are mentally and physically handicapped? The weak and elderly also require our love and attention for their special needs. 

Let’s cherish the gift of life given to us generously by God. Express our gratitude to Almighty God in our prayers and with thankful hearts. Our expressions of gratitude ought to lead us to active commitment to love and serve in whatever ways are presented to us in the journey of life. Each October we renew our commitment for RESPECT FOR LIFE!  Celebrate the giftedness of life given to us by God.