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St. James Respect Life Ministry |
The
single rose as the symbol of our ministry was adopted from the Kansas City-St.
Joseph Diocesan Respect Life Network.
The single rose is used by the National Right to Life Campaign and is
further found in other secular and religious publications representing the
movement on behalf of the “cause of life”.
The
single rose is a well recognized symbol of the Knights of Columbus Rose for
Life Campaign, an annual January campaign to stamp out abortion.
Our
Catholic heritage finds a deeply spiritual connection with the rose. “Mystical
Rose” is prayed in the Litany of Mary. Our Lady of Gaudalupe, Intercessor of
the Unborn, is associated with the beauty and scent of the rose. Mary used
roses through Juan Diego to demonstrate proof of her apparition. The scent of a
rose during prayer is said to be a sign of Mary’s presence.
The
Respect Life Ministry, consistent with its mission statement, has since 1994,
placed a single rose prominently near the altar through the months of
October-Respect Life Month, and January-the anniversary of the Roe vs. Wade
decision and Knights of Columbus Rose for Life Campaign. Symbolism of this rose
is referenced in the bulletin these months representing the cause of life. A
new, fresh rose is maintained and gifted to the parish weekly by individuals,
parish families, and ministries as also noted in the bulletin. Additionally,
The Respect Life Ministry proposes that the symbolism of the rose presented
during October and January is included in the Liturgy through sermon, petition,
and prayer.
The
Respect Life Ministry is pleased to offer the single rose used in this manner
as the best symbol for the purpose of evangelium vitae.
