Monsignor Tom Wallace, Episcopal Vicar for the Riverside Pastoral Region, celebrated the Mass, which was coordinated by Pro Life Catholic Ministries of the diocese. Catholic schools were given special recognition as places where the value of Life is taught and lived. Several schools were represented in the procession at the start of Mass.
In his homily, Msgr. Wallace acknowledged that Church teaching and ministry on the issue of Life is not popular with some in society but he stressed the importance of being prophetic on the issue in difficult circumstances.
“The world wishes us to kick the can down the street, to go in a different direction,” he said. “But we can’t. The cause of human life is too important. We must continue.”
While not able to attend in person, Bishop Gerald Barnes offered a special video message at the Mass. He acknowledged the many ways Pro Life ministry takes place in the diocese.
“Today, I want to extend my thanks and appreciation for all who have prayed with dedication for Life, prayed before the Blessed Sacrament and outside the abortion clinic, and for those who have spiritually adopted families in crisis,” Bishop Barnes said in his message. “ I honor also those of you who welcome the stranger in a difficult pregnancy and those who journey with people who have been wounded by abortion.
“For those of you who work to make ours a marriage building church, sharing the good news of chastity and natural family planning, I thank you also.
“Finally, I offer my gratitude to those of you in our Catholic Schools, our principals, teachers, students and parents, who set a special example of what it means to teach a Culture of Life.”
Following the Mass a reception was held in the parish hall where attendees enjoyed refreshments and a Culture of Life Fair, which offered exhibits and information about Pro Life ministries in the diocese.
Many reflected on the toll that legalized abortion has taken on the country.
“When you consider how many lives have been lost…they are angels in heaven,” said Judy Mueller, a parishioner at Our Lady of the Desert in Apple Valley and a volunteer at the Pregnancy Counseling Center in Hesperia. “We never give up. We know the Lord is on our side.”
Meanwhile, St. Frances Xavier Cabrini parishioner Mona Rodriguez said the Mass made her think of future generations.
“It’s emotional for me today,” she said. “I have a young granddaughter and I really need to educate her.”