On a cold snowy Sunday afternoon about 95 brave and dedicated Pro-Lifers gathered in St Agnes Church for the 40+ year Chester County Rally and March for Life. Pastor Joseph Stigora from Covenant Fellowship Church played guitar and led the singing to begin the program.
Fr Louis Bellopede, Pastor of St Agnes Parish, warmly welcomed us with an opening prayer. He also gave a little history of the parish and the beautiful church. Finally, he mentioned how important the pro-Life message is and encouraged us to continue this much needed ministry.
Don and Carol Friel, active members of Windsor Baptist Church, described some instances that happened at Planned Parenthood. Two abortion minded mothers, after speaking with them, changed their minds and sought help from Chester County Connect Care to continue their pregnancy. Don and Carol urged the audience to consider volunteering to pray on Tuesdays and Thursdays with them
Laura Gies told us she moved to Phila to become a house mother at age 25 of the Mothers Home in Darby, Pa. Laura has been involved for 37 years in sidewalk counseling, She also told us that she was involved in helping two abortion vulnerable mothers to choose life this past year. Laura spoke about some specific language that she uses to try to start a dialogue. She also related trying to communicate with a Spanish speaking women by using an app on her phone to translate. Passing around pictures of these two infants was a highlight of the afternoon.
Dave Owsik then read an essay written by Elizabeth Jade Kolb. She was born in China and described how grateful she was that her mother bravely chose life. The conditions in China were horrific and she was fortunate to have been adopted and brought to the United States. Her parents, who adopted her, are so proud that she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Kutztown University. Elizabeth is now working for a pro life organization near Washington DC. She is an example of how love and hard work can overcome big obstacles.
Sister Gaudia Maria, of the Sisters of Life, spoke eloquently regarding “You are an Image of God.” She instructed us that each of us is an unrepeatable work of the Father. We each have a unique plan for our life. She related two stories of women , who desperately needed someone to care about them and how the sisters put a loving blanket around them and gave them hope. You could sense God’s love coming thru Sister.
The 35th Public Witness Award is always a surprise. The Board voted unanimously to honor Don and Carol Friel with 40 Days for Life Jackets. They have both dedicated many hours to prayer and sidewalk counseling. They have inspired other members of their church and many others in the Pro Life Ministry.
Joe Stigora led us in final song, and we then proceeded to walk 5 blocks, while it was snowing, to the old courthouse. After a quick two songs and some pictures we proceeded to the Knights of Columbus for Fellowship and refreshments.
Thank you to all the many people who made this event possible and to the people who braved the cold and the snow to STAND UP FOR LIFE.
Dave Owsik
