Stewardship Minutes

Stewardship Talk
Robert Rack

Stewardship Address

My name is Robert Rack. I am a retired pediatrician and have been a member of St. Nicholas parish for 15 years. I have enjoyed working with several ministries, including the choir and instrumental music. Three years ago, I was nominated for membership on the Pastoral Council and observed how many ministries work together for the benefit of the parish and the community in which we live.

About 1 1/2 years ago, I joined the Respect Life Committee, then co-chaired by two excellent ladies. When one of these women left, I agreed to assume the chair.

I envision the Respect Life Committee as primarily educational. Starting with the premise that the right to life is a basic human right, we intend to educate ourselves, and teach those who will listen, about threats to life from conception to natural death. Our goal is to promote the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, and to show how they apply to our basic human right.

In addition to debating the problems of abortion and end-of-life issues, we have presented programs on child abuse, elder abuse and family violence. Our agenda for the coming year will include the death penalty, embryonic stem cell manipulation, euthanasia and assisted suicide. Each year we collect infant clothing for the Virginia Society for Human Life.

As a physician and a father of six, I am eager to contribute my knowledge and my passion for life to this ministry. I invite each of you to join in the work of this committee. We will need help in arranging special programs and classes, monitoring current events and legislation, and in corresponding as advocates for life in the community. A letter or a phone call to a political representative can be a powerful tool for change.

I have enjoyed my work with the Council, and look forward to my new ministry. I will be available in the commons after Mass to those who have questions.