Seniors who have decided not to take part in their graduation at Notre Dame have invited Fr. Frank Pavone of Priests For Life to lead them in prayer, in an alternate ceremony on another part of the campus, at the very hour that pro-abortion President Obama will speak and be honored by the University.
Fr. Frank Pavone welcomed the invitation saying,
"In standing with these students, I am standing with the true spirit of Notre Dame: a pro-life spirit, in harmony with human reason and Catholic Faith. The scandal that has been generated does not represent what Notre Dame is all about; it represents a radical betrayal of what Notre Dame is all about. I am encouraged by the pro-life activities of so many student groups on this campus – activities that are carried out all year round.
Hundreds of thousands of Catholics, hundreds of priests, and dozens of bishops have called upon Notre Dame to end this scandal by withdrawing its invitation to President Obama. The result of that demand is not in our control. But one final response to this scandal is fully in the control of each graduating senior: don’t show up. Don’t participate in an event which will only serve to obscure rather than highlight the Church's pro-life teaching and the true spirit of Notre Dame. Instead, come to the Class of 2009 Vigil for Life. The seniors who do this are manifesting the real meaning of commencement: they are carrying out the witness to truth and service that their hard-earned degrees have prepared them to give in the world."
Despite sending mixed signals on the issue in previous months, local Bishop J. M. D'Arcy finally acquiesced, approving the peaceful demonstration by stating,
"I am supportive of all efforts by NDResponse or any other prayerful and dignified demonstrations by Notre Dame students."
Read the official Press Release here
Also, for further information and/or to participate in the events visit:
www.NDresponse.com
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