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.
Finding St Anthony Among the Lost Items
Saint Anthony of Padua, though often associated with finding lost articles, was primarily known in his lifetime as a powerful and eloquent preacher. Originally a Canon Regular of St. Augustine, he was inspired to join the newly formed Franciscan order after witnessing the martyrdom of the first Franciscan missionaries in Morocco. His conversion to the mendicant life under St. Francis of Assisi transformed him, deepening his commitment to poverty, humility, and evangelical preaching. Gifted with profound theological knowledge and a captivating speaking style, he traveled across Italy and France, drawing immense crowds with his clear and passionate sermons, converting many and combating heresy with his unwavering faith and intellectual rigor. Beyond his public ministry, St. Anthony was a mystic who enjoyed profound spiritual experiences, most notably a vision of the Infant Jesus. This intimate connection with the Christ Child is a hallmark of his iconography, often depicting him c...
