Those who are “history buffs” of Early Christianity, as I am, may know that the first Christians in Rome and Greece were infamous among their pagan neighbors for rescuing abandoned babies. Infamous because those first Christians would go out at night and listen for abandoned babies crying. Then they brought the little ones into their homes, protected them, and raised them with love.

The pagans were shocked - why would Christians want these babies? They mocked them and even made up lies about them. In those days it was the standard practice for couples, after delivering an unwanted baby, to abandon the baby in the public square or along highways. It was called “exposure” and it was just as horrific to the first Christians as it would be to us Christians today.

These babies might have been unwanted for any reason, but generally it related to disabilities, gender, the family’s economic situation, or being born outside the parents’ timeline.

Yet, none of this stopped the Christians from loving those babies and children! What else could a follower of Christ do? Jesus said that whatsoever we do to the least of His brothers and sisters we do to Him (Matthew 25:40).

We modern-age Christians have the same love for the vulnerable, abandoned, and rejected persons in our communities. Tragically there are many today who would kill babies in the wombs of their mothers through abortion. Some advocate for the separation of certain children from their parents. Some people would abandon the elderly whose care is seen as a burden and their life “not useful.”

But, just as in early times there were Christians who went out and loved the life of every person, especially the weakest and most vulnerable, there are today, too, right here at St. John Vianney Parish!

Thanks to the wonderful joy, knowledge and energy of our sister and parishioner Anne Dennis, we are beginning a new “Loving Life Ministry” in the parish. This is a way for anyone who would like to help babies (recently born and pre-born) and moms & dads (especially the ones who may need a friend or extra help). As well, since we love human life - at all stages and in all forms - the ministry will offer ways to do special works of mercy and love for the elderly, homeless, incarcerated, trauma survivors and (in collaboration with Brazos Abiertos) refugees and migrants.

Anne and I are going to host an open meeting on September 3 at 7:00pm in the parish office. My only request (as pastor I get to make special requests…) is that there be no bureaucracy to this ministry - so no meeting minutes or elections for sergeant-at-arms. We’re just going to come together in Christ and think through how we can love and protect each other, especially the vulnerable. Pray about it, consider joining us. If this isn’t the time for you, no worries - please at least say a prayer for our efforts!

God bless everyone this week - remember, the family that prays together, stays together!

Fr. David

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