by Renée Zitzloff
January 22, 1998 will mark the 25th anniversary of Roe vs Wade, the infamous Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion in the U.S. In the wake of that decision, 35 million children are missing from our homes, schools and churches. There has been "no room at the inn."
There is a way to end abortion in the U.S., indeed in the world. The answer lies within the Orthodox Church. Why? Because we are the Church of prayer and fasting. Jesus said that there are some demons that come out only by prayer and fasting (Mark 9:29). The frequent seasons of prayer and fasting within the cycle of the Church are there for a reason. They are given to us as tools; indeed as weapons of spiritual warfare. We are in a battle against principalities and powers that cause immense suffering and pain through the evil of abortion. Can it be any more evident that Satan has a stronghold in this area?
During fasting periods in our Church, such as this Nativity fast, we must pray fervently to Christ to show us how to battle this evil. We must also pray for love and compassion for women and men involved in crisis pregnancies, as well as for those who work within the abortion industry.
At St. Mary's Greek Orthodox Church in Minneapolis, we have found a way to remember and grieve. On a Sunday near the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, there is a sermon on abortion. After the Liturgy, we commemorate mothers and babies who have died from abortion, using the memorial service for anyone who has died. Finally, we pass out literature on the subject of abortion, along with information for any woman facing a crisis pregnancy. It is a small but valuable way to face the reality of abortion, while reaching out to women who need help.
Other parishes may want to consider doing this. Any crisis pregnancy center or pro-life group in your area can provide literature. You may also want to consider having someone speak to older youth on the subject of abortion and crisis pregnancy.
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posted: January 27, 1998 / as published in the Theophany 1998 issue of In Communion