The Right to Life-Part 2

The Right To Life – Part 2

Submitted by Thomas Stidl

         In part one of this article, the act of abortion was brought into focus.  The Declaration of Independence also speaks of liberty and the pursuit of happiness.  Happiness comes in many forms.  It is usually constrained by personal finance and the education of the human individual.  It is also constrained by the geographical area in which the individual resides.  As Catholics, we are taught to be concerned for our fellow human beings.  “Thou shall love thy neighbor as you love yourself”.  This is what Jesus preached in the Christian Testament.

         The world’s governments have created borders to help control migration practices.  Walls and fences are built.  Citizens do this surrounding our own property.  However, this does not mean that people should stay in one place.  It does mean that a person, who wishes to migrate, as my ancestors did over one hundred years ago, must follow the given rules by both the home and host country.  If the rules are not followed, chaos ensues.  Once legally in the host country, the immigrant must follow all the rules, apply for citizenship, and assimilate into their new society.

         Now everyone wishes for a better life.  There may be a better way.  My diocese has missions in Latin America.  The people of our parishes support them in the collection plate.  We also support other larger Catholic Charities.  After all, “Love your neighbor” does not just apply to people in your neighborhood.  It is a universal call from the Universal Church.

         Therefore, it is incumbent on all larger charities to help support the missions in foreign countries to better the lives of all people in their country of origin.  It also means that Catholic charities must also follow the law in any country.  Failure to do so might compromise their non-profit tax status.  They must educate and teach skills to everyone.  It will then be a personal decision whether to stay or leave their home country.  People with skills can better themselves without depending on the social welfare net of either the home or host country.  It makes sense that the social welfare net should take care of its own citizens before the immigrant.  Our citizens should lack nothing.  This is their right whether born here or naturalized.

         If you wish to emigrate, prepare to spend some unpleasant hours waiting to be allowed into another country.  I assure you that Ellis Island was not a picnic for my family, but at least they proudly came in legally.  I hope that this clarifies the matter of being pro-life.  I believe this article shows a tremendous amount of love and respect for all human beings.

         Until next time, Laus Tibi, Christe.  Deo Gratias.  Gloria Tibi Domini.  Praise be to God.  See you in Paradise.