Where is this mystery steeple? Diocesan Annual Report Pages 11-14 Page 4
New Earth CATHOLIC DIOCESE
OF
FARGO
September2014 2011 November Vol. 3210 Page No. 8 Vol. 35 No. 1B
“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth” — Rev. 21:1
www.FargoDiocese.org www.FargoDiocese.org
Disappointed, but not defeated Despite Measure 1 defeat, campaign built-up culture of life By Aliceyn Magelky
A fierce battle that began early in 2013 to place a protective measure in the North Dakota constitution came to an end on the eve of Nov. 4, 2014. During North Dakota’s midterm election, the majority of the state’s voters opted to reject the “Human Life Amendment” which stated, “the inalienable right to life of every human being at any stage of development must be recognized and protected.” The measure, firmly supported by both North Dakota bishops, would have protected several current laws prohibiting abortions on demand. Those laws include: parents be notified if their underage daughter seeks an abortion prior to the procedure, women receive full disclosure of information prior to an abortion, abortion procedures can only be performed by a licensed physician with hospital admitting privileges and prohibition of partial-birth abortions. “While we are disappointed that Measure 1 did not pass, we remain hopeful that a culture of life will be established in the state of North Dakota and throughout the nation,” said Bishop John Folda of the Fargo Diocese, in a released statement. “Unfortunately, every pro-life law in North Dakota is still at risk, and we have missed an opportunity to protect these laws from the unilateral opinions of judges and from the out-of-state abortion lobby,” he continued.
Building an army of supporters Since the day both the N.D. Senate and House of Representatives approved the measure to go to public vote, many faithful, pro-life advocates across the state united in campaign activity, prayer and witness to life. Despite the failing passage of the amendment, many would contend that defenders of the right to life in our state and proponents of Measure 1 can claim a victory. “Many supporters collaborated in the passage of this amendment with time, energy, talent and generosity,” said Bishop Folda. “A small army of parish coordinators, volunteers, pastors and financial supporters worked very hard to get the message out. Despite the election outcome, their efforts were not wasted, and they brought even greater attention to the sanctity of all human life. With their help we will persevere in our efforts to build and nurture a culture of life in North Dakota.” “It’s been very heartening to see doctors, attorneys, people of differing denominations, people who might not otherwise under other circumstances come together, work to support this Please turn to SUPPORTERS on page 3B
Efforts of many brought awareness
Above, students and parishioners from North Dakota State University’s St. Paul Newman Center showed their support for Measure 1 during the NDSU Homecoming parade in October. At left, signs like this one dotted parish lawns urging for the passages of Measure 1. Both North Dakota Catholic bishops stood solidly behind this amendment’s goal to protect all human life. Below left, ND Choose Life chairperson,Janne Myrdal (left) talks with Bishop John Folda of the Diocese of Fargo (center) and Matthew St. John, pastor of Bethel Church of Fargo following a press conference one day prior to Election Day in hopes of clearing any lingering confusion about Measure 1. Submitted photos