Pretty cold…

I know, I know..de nada for those in truly frigid parts. Still, it was pretty. I never did get  to see Niagara Falls in the winter..this will have to do for now.
(Courtyard, Cathedral of St. Paul, Birmingham, AL)
Today was a busy day, and it’s only 2pm.
We began very early as Katie and I rose at 6:15, and headed to a local Applebee’s where her theater academy was holding a pancake breakfast fundraiser. Fundraising for their trip to Edinburgh this summer to perform in the American High School Theatre Festival (held at the same time as the Fringe Festival). I did very little work – I wasn’t really needed – but spent most of the time chatting with folks, including those in charge about the marvelous timing of a getting involved in a huge project requiring a lot of $$$$ just as the economy tanks. Small consolation: the gaining dollar against the pound (at this point).
Then it was off to the Cathedral where Michael and the Boyz were waiting for us, to a Respect Life Mass, Bishop Baker presiding. This was the first year they had held such a Mass, they didn’t know what to expect…and the Cathedral was full. Very nice Mass, including an effective homily in which Bishop Baker pulled together St. Anthony’s battle against evil, the fact that when Lyndon Baines Johnson took office, many thought that was a death-knell for the civil rights movement, a reminder of the truth of what Jesus said in the Gospel- with God all things are possible – and a strong reminder that the fight for civil rights has not ended, as long as the unborn are deprived the right to life.
After Mass, it was time to head a few blocks south to Bryant Park where a rally preceding the annual March for Life was beginning. The rally was a bit long, especially considering the temperature, but even then, it was a marvelous opportunity to be in the presence of a great group of witnesses and finally meet some wonderful people who Michael’s been telling me about.
Some photos:

At prayer

Bishop Baker leading prayer

Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word.
There were many religious there from various orders, as well as diocesan priests and chancery employees.

The opposition, gathered in front of a local abortion facility. You can’t really see it (maybe you can if you click on the photo for a large version), but the woman in the red jacket in the middle is holding a small dog.
That was thought-provoking.
Finally, the Jesus Guy was there:


Really. Click here for more about the Jesus Guy.
It was useful to have him around, to be able to say to your children, complaining about the cold, “See, he’s not wearing shoes, and he’s not complaining…” A vivid way of saying “offer it up.”
When Jesus Came to Birmingham…
Pray for the little ones, pray for all the women and girls grappling with what they see as distressing news.