Faced with the looming
construction of a multimillion-dollar, regional abortion facility by
Planned Parenthood Gulf South, New Orleans Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond
has cautioned local Catholics and businesses they would be "cooperating
with the evil that will take place" at the clinic if they participated
in its preparation or construction. In an open letter, published on the
front page of the Feb. 1 issue of the Clarion Herald, the archdiocesan
newspaper, Archbishop Aymond said the caution extends to any person or
business "involved in the acquisition, preparation and construction of
this (abortion) facility." The archbishop also indicated the archdiocese
would not do future business "with any person or organization that
participates in actions that are essential to making this abortion
facility a reality. This policy applies to all businesses, regardless of
religious affiliation or nonaffiliation," Archbishop Aymond wrote. "Our
fidelity to church teaching and our conscience necessitates this
stance." Planned Parenthood currently operates two clinics in Louisiana
-- in New Orleans and Baton Rouge -- but does not perform abortions in
the state. In its public statements about the proposed 7,000- to
8,000-square-foot facility, located about five minutes from two
universities and on a site easily accessible by public transportation,
Planned Parenthood Gulf South indicated it would seek a state license to
perform abortions.
Born during the turbulent era of the French Revolution, Saint Jeanne Jugan rose above hardship and a lack of formal schooling to become a profound vessel of Christ’s mercy. After losing her father at a young age and working through her youth as a kitchen maid and nurse, her life radically changed one freezing night when she encountered a blind, paralyzed elderly woman with nowhere to go. Jeanne carried the woman back to her own home, placed her in her own bed, and began a lifelong mission of radical hospitality. This act of profound love blossomed into the Little Sisters of the Poor , a thriving community dedicated to sheltering and honoring the destitute elderly. Despite later facing heavy trials—including being unjustly sidelined and stripped of her leadership by a controlling chaplain—Jeanne accepted her obscurity and exile with a joyful spirit, resting her complete trust in God's hidden providence until her death in 1879. In our daily lives, Saint Jeanne Jugan invites us to lo...