Basilica Parishioners Invited to Pray the Rosary in the Basilica in the Morning Or Afternoon on Friday, May 13, 2022, In Response to Pro-Abortion Protests

Posted on May 10, 2022

Parishioners at the Basilica of Saint Mary are invited to recite the Rosary in the Basilica starting at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, May 13, 2022. Or, join Father Edward Hathaway, the Rector of the Basilica, who will lead the recitation of the Rosary following the 12:10 p.m. Mass on May 13 (with the recitation of the Divine Mercy Chaplet, which normally occurs after the 12:10 p.m. Mass, to be prayed after the Rosary.) If you can’t make it to the Basilica, please pray the Rosary at home. All parishioners are also encouraged to fast on May 13.

Here is the background to why all this will occur:

The leak of a draft opinion in the U.S. Supreme Court case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization has caused some abortion advocates recently to call for nationwide demonstrations, disruptions of church services, and the personal intimidation of specific Supreme Court justices. Click here to find out more.

In response, Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities invited the faithful to unite in fasting and prayer:

In the midst of current tensions, we invite Catholics around the country to join us in fasting and praying the Rosary on Friday, May 13, the Memorial of Our Lady of Fatima. Let us offer our prayers and fasting for these intentions:

For our nation, for the integrity of our judicial system, and that all branches of government be dedicated to seeking the common good and protecting the dignity and rights of the human person, from conception to natural death.
For the overturning of Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey in the Supreme Court’s final decision in Dobbs v. Jackson.
For the conversion of the hearts and minds of those who advocate for abortion.
For a new commitment to building an America where children are welcomed, cherished, and cared for; where mothers and fathers are encouraged and strengthened; and where marriage and the family are recognized and supported as the true foundations of a healthy and flourishing society.
For Our Blessed Mother’s intercession and guidance as the Church continues to walk with mothers and families in need, and continues to promote alternatives to abortion, and seeks to create a culture of life.

As Catholics, let us witness to the beautiful gift of life with civility and love, and with our peaceful prayers and our compassionate service to all those in need.

Our Lady of Fatima, pray for us.

Please click here to read a statement by Bishop Michael Burbidge on this matter.