On Jan. 19, the vigil for the March for Life in Washington, lay faithful from across the Diocese came together at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Divine Mercy Parish in Vineland, for a night of prayer and Adoration for Life.
The gathering, which was held in Spanish, was hosted by the diocesan offices of Hispanic Ministry and Family and Youth. The evening began with Mass celebrated by Father Joel Arciga-Camarillo, pastor of Divine Mercy Parish. In his homily, the priest reminded those present that we are called to protect and care for our brothers and sisters throughout their whole lives, from conception to natural death. His homily, which drew nods of affirmation, was the ever so needed reminder that we as Christians, as Catholics, are called to love one another and be protectors of life at all moments.
After the celebration of Mass, a Holy Hour was held where lay leaders of the parish Charismatic Renewal group guided those present in song and prayer. Andres Arango, Bishop’s delegate for Hispanic Ministry, gave a short, yet powerful talk on the importance of life and being defenders of life.
“Jesus himself said that he is the life,” Arango said. Of the event, he said, “It was a great motivation to see so many Hispanics kneeling before Jesus, interceding for respect for life in all its stages. In addition, it was inspiring to hear many of them leave the church with the motivation to take concrete actions to establish a culture of life in our society.”
Jose Rodriguez is Director of the Diocese of Camden’s Office of Family and Youth
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