The dignity of all human life in the Eucharist

Credit here

Earlier today, I had the opportunity to take part in the annual March for Life in Dublin along with some fellow members of the Irish chapter of Rehumanize International. The event, organised by the Pro‑LifeCampaign, seeks to uphold the rights of unborn children and to promote a broader culture of life. This includes support for other vulnerable people at a time when assisted suicide is being introduced in some jurisdictions and openly supported by a significant number of members of the Oireachtas (Irish parliament).

Support for life at every stage - from conception to natural death -  is a key and fundamental part of Catholic Social Teaching as solidarity with the poorest, weakest and most marginalised members of society. I also believe it sits within a wider consistent life ethic that can, and does, find support across a diversity of political and religious viewpoints, including among those who do not profess religious faith.

The March was preceded by the celebration of Mass at the Church of Saint John Henry Newman (a church of particular personal significance, as I was received into the worldwide Christian family through baptism in this very church on 22 December 1956). It seemed entirely fitting that those wishing to take part should begin this very public witness to the dignity and value of all human life with the celebration of the Holy Mass.

where I first enrolled on the journey 69 years ago

In the Mass, we are united with the sacrifice of Jesus on Calvary and share in the fruits of His Death and Resurrection. Each time we receive Christ in the Eucharist, He says “yes” to us: you are infinitely loved; you are precious; you are made for life both here and in eternity.

Standing together — whether in defence of the unborn, in support of immigrants, or alongside other vulnerable groups in our society — forms part of our Eucharistic mission: to carry the love of God into every corner of our lives and into the wider world.

An encouraging turnout of people at today's march in Dublin with all age groups and ethnic backgrounds present

Later today I joined fellow trade unionists and political activists in Kilkenny city to mark May Day and the struggle for social justice, equality and human rights globally and at home.

To go forth from the eucharistic celebration earlier today not as isolated individuals, but as couples, families, communities, and people of faith — working alongside others for the common good — is a source of deep joy, even when such witness leaves us marginalised in political or media discourse. It is ultimately more important to stand for truth, justice, and life than to be applauded or rewarded by the prevailing culture.

The SIPTU trade union memorial on John's Quay in Kilkenny City

It was a busy day and thank God for all the wonderful people I met today and throughout my life so far as well as my faithful companion and wife, Bridget.