by Father Christopher Heanue
As we reflect on October, a month our Catholic Church traditionally observes as Respect Life Month, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the parishioners of St. Joan of Arc Church in Jackson Heights for their generosity and commitment to the dignity of human life.
This past month, our parish hosted a special baby shower to support mothers struggling with crisis pregnancies. Through the kindness and generosity of our parish family, we donated hundreds of items to The Bridge to Life, a wonderful local organization serving mothers and families in need here in Brooklyn and Queens.
We collected essential baby items, including diapers, baby wipes, clothing, blankets, bottles, formula, and other necessities that help mothers care for their newborn children.
Each item represents more than a simple donation; it is a tangible expression of love, compassion, and solidarity with mothers who may be facing uncertainty or financial hardship.
These gifts send a powerful message to every mother we serve: You are not alone; your child is precious, and there is a community ready to walk alongside you.
The Bridge to Life, whose important work has been highlighted in The Tablet, provides compassionate care, practical assistance, and encouragement to mothers who choose life, even amid great trials and tribulations.
Their mission reminds us that being pro-life means more than simply defending life in principle; it means offering genuine love, support, and assistance to those who need it most.
My hope is that this past month has inspired a renewed appreciation in each of us for the sacredness and dignity of every human life, from conception to natural death — especially the lives of those who are most vulnerable.
As Catholics, we do not simply celebrate life for one month of the year. We are called to be a people of life every day of the year. Our commitment to the Gospel of Life must be reflected not only in our words and prayers but also in our actions, our generosity, and our willingness to accompany those facing difficult circumstances.
Our faith challenges us not merely to proclaim that every life has value, but to help create a community in which every person knows that they are loved, supported, and never alone.
We must be willing not only to defend the gift of life but also to help others recognize its beauty and value, especially when life’s circumstances make that difficult to see.
I want to publicly thank everyone who contributed to our parish baby shower. Their generosity is a beautiful witness to the Gospel and a reminder that when we come together as a parish family, we can make a real difference in the lives of others.
May we continue working together to inspire others to defend the vulnerable, support those in need, and recognize the presence of Christ in every human life.
Father Christopher Heanue is the pastor of St. Joan of Arc Church in Jackson Heights.