The Sisters of Life, a group of religious sisters committed to advancing the intrinsic dignity and value of every human being, provide encouragement to expectant mothers who may think that their only choice is to have an abortion.
“Every woman has the want to be heard in her heart. To be comprehended. To be trusted,” said Sr. Marie Veritas, SV, in an interview with CNA.
To be recognised for her special beauty and kindness, qualities that, much too often, she fails to see in herself.
The sisters assert that they are committed to promoting a culture of life now more than ever.
The sisters promised to “renew our commitment to love” in response to the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s health Organization to overturn Roe v. Wade, which permitted abortion on demand nationwide.
The sisters’ statement said, “[W]e vow to those women who find themselves pregnant and in distress that they do not have to go alone.”
“We are certain that this Supreme Court ruling will inspire many more women to seek out to people of good will throughout the country who are prepared to assist a woman in need who is dealing with genuine problems, difficulties, and anxieties,” the statement said.
The sisters also offer to support these ladies if they do contact out.
The Sisters of Life were created in New York in 1991 by the late Cardinal John O’Connor. They have offices in Washington, D.C., Ontario, Canada, Denver, Philadelphia, and Phoenix in addition to its headquarters in the New York region.
Poverty, chastity, obedience, and “to safeguard and enrich the dignity of human existence” are the four vows made by the community of Catholic religious women.
The sisters devote their lives to assisting those who are at risk of abortion, providing pregnant women in need with life-affirming care, conducting retreats, practising outreach to college students, and aiding those who have had abortions.
The sisters want to share eight words of hope with any expecting mother who may be suffering and thinking about having an abortion, according to Sr. Marie Veritas.
She started out by saying, “Your aspirations are not out of reach,” to the lady.
Sr. Marie Veritas encouraged, “There are actual solutions that will get you back on your feet again, never lamenting what may have been.” You shouldn’t feel under any pressure to have an abortion,
She emphasised further that “Conditions may change.”
It can seem that the timing of this pregnancy is unfortunate, she remarked. “Perhaps you anticipate that your family won’t support you since you know they’ll be disappointed in you.
You are scared that your future goals and aspirations may never come true. Your present troubles are genuine, yet there is always hope for a fresh start.
She advised women to “Give yourself space” before deciding.
She warned that impulsive decisions might result in regret. “When our hearts are at peace, we make the best decisions.
Give yourself enough time to thoroughly investigate the information and carefully weigh your options.
There is still time to create a strategy that will lead to freedom and a choice you won’t regret.
She added, “You are not alone,” and added that women should keep in mind that they have support. “Secret decisions lead to heartache,” she said.
Women who experience an unplanned pregnancy might feel ashamed and embarrassed, the expert said. The first instinct is to cover up their “mistake” or “fix the issue” before anyone notices. This frequently results in regret.
She urged women to ask for assistance.
Sr. Marie Veritas remarked, “You are not alone in this journey. Take some time, and let us put you in touch with people who have experienced similar circumstances and are willing to share their viewpoints.
She wanted women to know, “We believe in you,” on behalf of the sisters.
She said, “You have plans for your life, and having a child may not be one of those plans right now. The mystery of new life within you, however, can be empowering and a great source of motivation to complete your education, find a job, and develop into the woman you were meant to be.
The sisters advised the expectant mother to “listen to her heart,” even if she may hear contradictory viewpoints.
The Sr. Marie Veritas said, “Everyone around you may have developed an idea of what you should do.” “Set away the negative voices that are distorting the reality of your kindness, your womanly dignity, and your amazing ability for love. Let us assist you in determining what will offer you the most happiness.
In other words, women should “See past your worries to the potential,” according to the sisters.
Fear is a powerful emotion, according to Sr. Marie Veritas. We sometimes risk being tricked into acting on unreasonable or unjustified anxieties. This might be overwhelming and keep us from moving forward with finding a solution.
Additionally, it could skew our judgement and mislead us. It’s ideal to make significant or life-changing choices while you’re free and at ease.
Let’s chat and come up with a solution you can live with, she said in closing.
Housing, employment, medical help, legal counsel, as well as emotional and spiritual support, are just a few of the many options we provide, according to her.
“We are here to walk with you in discovering genuine possibilities at a challenging time. We are here to listen, to answer questions, to explore your choices. You deserve a secure environment where you can express your concerns and experiences.
Women research the Sisters of Life online and get in touch with them for assistance. Women may text 212-203-8716 or call 1-877-777-1277 for pregnancy assistance.
How can Americans who are Catholic and pro-life assist the sisters?
According to Sr. Marie Veritas, the sisters “rely fully on Divine Providence for the spiritual and material sustenance of our lives and missions” in order to carry out their pro-life ministerial work.
She said that the sisters feel fortunate to be supported by so many kind people all across the globe.
She extended an invitation to both sexes to consider volunteering as Co-Workers of Life.
She said that these coworkers had direct contact with the clients the sisters assist.
They are requested to devote their time and skills to supporting the sisters in a number of ways, including as by offering their legal, medical, or counselling expertise, or by becoming friends with women going through difficult pregnancies or acting as prayer guardians.
Additionally, Sr. Marie Veritas urged viewers to see the sisters’ “INTO LIFE: Love Changes Everything” formation programme. The sisters created a video series on how to support a pregnant woman through childbirth in association with the CampCampo films and McGrath Institute for Church Life.
Sr. Marie Veritas said that the sisters also appreciate contributions.
We also require maternity clothing, especially in sizes medium to extra-large, that is fresh or gently worn.
Sr. Marie Veritas most critically requested prayers.
She said, “We would love to invite everyone to join us in praying, fasting, and witnessing for life.”
She prayed, “that every person knows that he/she is made in the image and likeness of God, a unique reflection of His glory; that the life of those who are most vulnerable to abortion be protected and upheld; that women be cherished in their motherhood; that those who have experienced abortion in their lives come to know the tender mercy and healing of Jesus Christ, whose blood covers all sin