November 14, 2008
President-elect Barack Obama,
As American Catholics, we, the undersigned, would like to reiterate the congratulations given to you by Pope Benedict XVI. We will be praying for you as you undertake the office of President of the United States.
Wishing you much good will, we hope we will be able to work with you, your administration, and our fellow citizens to move beyond the gridlock which has often harmed our great nation in recent years. Too often, partisan politics has hampered our response to disaster and misfortune. As a result of this, many Americans have become resentful, blaming others for what happens instead of realizing our own responsibilities. We face serious problems as a people, and if we hope to overcome the crises we face in today’s world, we should make a serious effort to set aside the bitterness in our hearts, to listen to one another, and to work with one another
One of the praiseworthy elements of your campaign has been the call to end such partisanship. You have stated a desire to engage others in dialogue. With you, we believe that real achievement comes not through the defamation of one’s opponents, nor by amassing power and using it merely as a tool for one’s own individual will. We also believe dialogue is essential. We too wish to appeal to the better nature of the nation. We want to encourage people to work together for the common good. Such action can and will engender trust. It may change the hearts of many, and it might alter the path of our nation, shifting to a road leading to a better America. We hope this theme of your campaign is realized in the years ahead.
One of the critical issues which currently divides our nation is abortion. As you have said, no one is for abortion, and you would agree to limit late-term abortions as long as any bill which comes your way allows for exceptions to those limits, such as when the health of the mother is in jeopardy. You have also said you would like to work on those social issues which cause women to feel as if they have a need for an abortion, so as to reduce the actual number of abortions being performed in the United States.
Indeed, you said in your third presidential debate, “But there surely is some common ground when both those who believe in choice and those who are opposed to abortion can come together and say, ‘We should try to prevent unintended pregnancies by providing appropriate education to our youth, communicating that sexuality is sacred and that they should not be engaged in cavalier activity, and providing options for adoption, and helping single mothers if they want to choose to keep the baby.’”
As men and women who oppose abortion and embrace a pro-life ethic, we want to commend your willingness to engage us in dialogue, and we ask that you live up to your promise, and engage us on this issue.
There is much we can do together. There is much that we can do to help women who find themselves in difficult situations so they will not see abortion as their only option. There is much which we can do to help eliminate those unwanted pregnancies which lead to abortion.
One of your campaign promises is of grave concern to many pro-life citizens. On January 22, 2008, the 35th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, when speaking of the current right of women in America to have abortions, you said, “And I will continue to defend this right by passing the Freedom of Choice Act as president.”
The Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) might well undermine your engagement of pro-life Americans on the question of abortion. It might hamper any effort on your part to work with us to limit late-term abortions. We believe FOCA does more than allow for choice. It may force the choice of a woman upon others, and make them morally complicit in such choice. One concern is that it would force doctors and hospitals which would otherwise choose not to perform abortions to do so, even if it went against their sacred beliefs. Such a law would undermine choice, and might begin the process by which abortion is enforced as a preferred option, instead of being one possible choice for a doctor to practice.
It is because of such concern we write. We urge you to engage us, and to dialogue with us, and to do so before you consider signing this legislation. Let us reason together and search out the implications of FOCA. Let us carefully review it and search for contradictions of those positions which we hold in common.
If FOCA can be postponed for the present, and serious dialogue begun with us, as well as with those who disagree with us, you will demonstrate that your administration will indeed be one that rises above partisanship, and will be one of change. This might well be the first step toward resolving an issue which tears at the fabric of our churches, our political process, our families, our very society, and that causes so much hardship and heartache in pregnant women.
Likewise, you have also recently stated you might over-ride some of President G.W. Bush’s executive orders. This is also a concern to us. We believe doing so without having a dialogue with the American people would undermine the political environment you would like to establish. Among those issues which concern us are those which would use taxpayer money to support actions we find to be morally questionable, such as embryonic stem cell research, or to fund international organizations that would counsel women to have an abortion (this would make abortion to be more than a mere choice, but an encouraged activity).
Consider, sir, your general promise to the American people and set aside particular promises to a part of your constituency. This would indicate that you plan to reject politics as usual. This would indeed be a change we need.
Sincerely,
Deal W. Hudson
Christopher Blosser
Marjorie Campbell
Mark J. Coughlan
Rev. James A. Nowack
Craig D. Baker
Susan DeBoisblanc
Megan Stout
Joshua D. Brumfield
Ashley M. Brumfield
Michael J. Iafrate
Natalie Navarro
Matthew Talbot
Paul Mitchell
Todd Flowerday
Henry C Karlson III
Adam P Verslype
Josiah Neeley
Michael J. Deem
Katerina M. Deem
Natalie Mixa
Henry Newman
Anthony M. Annett
Mickey Jackson
Veronica Greenwell
Thomas Greenwell PhD
Robert C. Koerpel
Nate Wildermuth
New, Online Signatures:
William Simon
Deacon Keith Fournier
Mary Ruebelmann-Benavides
Jesus Benavides
Steve Dillard
Toby Danna
William Eunice
Mark Shea
Fr. Phil Bloom
Christopher Gant
Robert King, OP.
Peter Halabu
Kelly Clark
Eric Giunta
Mark Gordon
Linda Schuldt
Michael Mlekoday
Bryan McLaughlin
Victoria Hoffman
Jonathan Jones
Jim Janknegt
Marcel LeJeune
Fr. John Zuhlsdorf
Ken Hallenius III
Zach Gietl
Megan Bless
Kathy Myers
Timothy M. Mason
Kevin Koster
John Anthony D’Arpino
Brian Desmarais
Mary C. Borneman
Sylwia Matlosz
Stephen Lewis
Susan Boedefeld
David Turner
Fr. Loren W. Gonzales
Barbara Emge
Adam Mateo Fierro
Matthew Hardesty
Mark DeFrancisis
Heather Barrett
Sally Hultgren
Esther C. Gefroh
Brian Murphy
Joe A. Potillor, Jr.
Daniel H. Conway
Andrea Brown
Allan Hebert
Brandon Charles Markey
Chris Altieri
Nick van Zee
Chad Toney
Michael Enright
Susan Windley-Daoust
Lisa Pieson
Lisa Commerford
Erica Ford
David Nickol
John Elfering
Paul Zummo
Alena Chovanec
Brian T. Coughlin
Darren Krakowski
Anthony F. Miller
Joe Schriner
Clayton Emmer
Thomas L. McDonald
Justin Nickelsen
Joseph S. Arena
Nicholas J. Hardesty
Jean M. Heimann
Susan Murphy
Terri Peterson
Eric McIntosh
Mary Dykmann
Claire Gilligan
Kathrin Deady, R.N.
Maureen Boylan
Pamela Brill
David J. Brill
Adolfo Muniz O.P.
Rev. James A. Burcaria
Fr. Philip N. Powell, OP
Margaret Meier
Tyler Smedley
Joann Shannon
Barbara Goodier
Brian Mood
Ron Chandonia
Allison Wajert
William Collier
Geanie Smith
Gabriel Pulido
Robert Bruce Lewis
Cross-posted at:
DealWHudson (Theocon)
Inside Catholic
The Hopeful Populist
Catholic Anarchy
American Catholic
Gift of Self
Adam V’s Blog
Thoughts of a Regular Guy
Against the Grain
Defending My Bean Field
Bound and Free
Suicide of the West
Pro Ecclesia * Pro Familia * Pro Civitate
Southern Appeal
Full Circle
One Nation Under God
Dyspeptic Mutterings
The Cranky Conservative
Astonished, Yet at Home!
Laughter and Humility
Catholic and Enjoying It
The Catholic Liberal
Ad Saeculum
The Lady in the Pew
Pansy and Peony
Confessions of a Liberal Traditionalist
James B. Janknegt’s Weblog
Aggie Catholics
What Does the Prayer Really Say
100% of Your RDA of Ken
Yellow Blog Journalism
The Black Biretta
The Rockin’ Traddy
The Holy Cookie
Overheard in the Sacristy
The School of Mary
The Practicing Catholic
A Catholic Mom in Hawaii
Verbum Veritatis
This Old Church: Behind Enemy Lines
Catholic Mountain
The Lazy Disciple
The Weight of Glory
PhatCatholic Apologetics
Tom S.F.O.
Catholic Fire
Catholic Father
Gratia Super Naturam
Confraternity of Catholic Clergy
LiveJournal
AverageJoe Schriner
Fidele Ecclesia
Media Coverage (if you find more, let me know):
Catholic News Agency
(CNA story on CBCP News)
Catholic Online
Washington Times
Commander Craig (Catholic Radio 2.0)
This list will be updated; feel free to copy/paste the letter onto your own blog, and if you do, let me know, and I will add you here.
November 17, 2008 at 9:08 am
Good job. Let us all pray we can find common ground with our new President and help change our culture to respect all life.
peace to all
padrevic
November 17, 2008 at 10:01 am
This is a good letter. I hope the President-Elect sees it and responds. Aside from it being the right thing to do, even from a pragmatic political perspective it makes sense for him to moderate his position and not zealously advocate for FOCA. Whatever motive pushes him, I hope that’s the result.
I’ve posted the letter at my blog, defendingmybeanfield.blogspot.com
November 17, 2008 at 10:08 am
Brian
I think there is good hope that President-Elect Obama will be made aware of it. The more it is spread, the more not only he, but others will as well. I’ve made sure it has been sent to several key Obama-sources (online and offline), and there is also an effort to get national media attention to it. It does appear some of the media is favorable to giving it a hearing; hopefully the rest will follow!
November 17, 2008 at 11:13 am
[...] November 17, 2008 Originally posted at Vox-Nova [...]
November 17, 2008 at 11:16 am
I posted it at my blog. boundandfree.wordpress.com
November 17, 2008 at 11:23 am
Adam,
Thanks for your support!
November 17, 2008 at 11:51 am
I’ve posted it, too. at Suicide of the West
November 17, 2008 at 11:52 am
Sorry: Suicide of the West
November 17, 2008 at 12:19 pm
Mark
Ok, got it.
November 17, 2008 at 1:00 pm
Henry-
I think this letter is a step in the right direction. If you would like to add my name, please feel free to do so.
I’ll put a link up to this post at SA today.
Thanks for your work on this.
November 17, 2008 at 1:00 pm
Oh, and obviously, you can use my real name.
November 17, 2008 at 1:17 pm
For me it is a false sense of modesty that the person (H. Karlson?) who initiated this
effort does not sign first. Why so shy Mr. Karlson?
What is the rationale behind the order of signees anyway?
The way it appears now (to this outsider at least) Mr.Hudson is the most prominent signee in close second by Christopher Blosser.
As Obama would perhaps say: “Come on – what is wrong with that picture”.
November 17, 2008 at 1:20 pm
[...] think this letter to President-elect Obama is a good first step in engaging him (as well as his administration) on [...]
November 17, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Feddie: Done. And if anyone else, now having read the letter, wants to be added on to the electronic list of names, let me know. I will start adding them as well.
November 17, 2008 at 1:25 pm
Grega
I am the one who directly sent the letter to Obama to three different addresses. I am the one they have contact information for, if they want to contact me.
If you think it is false modesty which led me to put my name lower on the list, so be it.
November 17, 2008 at 1:25 pm
Thanks, Henry. Sorry I was late to the game on this. The last few months for me have been extremely hectic.
November 17, 2008 at 1:34 pm
Although I find this to be a MOSTLY reasonable statement–just as I expected it to be, from you–I wonder how much of an influence you can hope to have with an Obama Administration, when it is coupled with THIS:
http://www.cuatower.com/2008/11/14/cardinal-at-cua-obama-is-%E2%80%98aggressive-disruptive-and-apocalyptic%E2%80%99/
Also, THIS part simply isn’t true:
or to fund international organizations that would counsel women to have an abortion (this would make abortion to be more than a mere choice, but an encouraged activity).
I had to research this issue extensively when I was acting as a high school forensics activity coach recently, in a Catholic high school in Albuquerque, New Mexico. What I and my debaters learnt was that the “international organizations” that the Bush Administration had cut funding to were NOT “counseling women to have an abortion“–that they were, instead, just citing abortion as ONE of a NUMBER of “family planning” techniques, and that they were often doing this for women who had been raped or abused–and “raped,” often, by soldiers terrorizing them and their families.
The Bush ban also included cutting funds for organisations that provided contraceptives. Those organisations had previously been succeeding in cutting down the numbers of AIDS transmissions, and, paradoxically, when the funds were cut off to programs that had been designed by Africans for Africans and which included some regard for the sexual culture of Africans (as, for example, emphasis on “serial polygamy,” rather than the more traditional “simulataneous polygamy” practised by many tribesmen), the numbers of abortions of AIDS-infected foetuses had INCREASED!
It is for this reason, principally–as well as the fact that I cannot stomach the hypocrisy of the Catholic Pro-Life Movement in refraining from targeting artificial insemination as the true CAUSE of the stem cell research problem–that I am unable to sign your petition as it is written.
However, I wish you well with it.
November 17, 2008 at 1:35 pm
This is outstanding. I too linked it with the full text on my blog Full Circle
November 17, 2008 at 1:41 pm
An Open Letter to President Elect Obama has also been posted at OneNationUnderGod.org – Thank you!
November 17, 2008 at 1:42 pm
Feddie
Yes, it’s been a busy year for everyone. I just wanted to get this out ASAP which is why I didn’t give as much time as would have allowed to get more direct signatures. But I think the additional ones online, and the fact of so many blogs will host the letter, will indicate something.
November 17, 2008 at 1:42 pm
GGoose
Thanks!
November 17, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Lisa
Thanks, and got your cross-post listed as well here. It’s good to see many people supportive of this effort!
November 17, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Henry-
I agree. Thanks for your hard work on this.
November 17, 2008 at 1:46 pm
Good work–I posted it, too.
[Resuming radio silence.]
November 17, 2008 at 1:48 pm
Digbydolben
As you know, there are many reactions to Obama’s election, and within the Catholic Church, there are people who are positive and people who are negative over it. It has been the case with every president, I suspect. I just hope more will at least be open to see what Obama will do, and pray for him and that he will have wisdom in his role as President.
Even citing abortion as an option, one could say, is encouragement. Obviously I think you are right about artificial insemination, and have discussed it a few times on Vox Nova. It’s a part of the problem many do not want to admit.
November 17, 2008 at 1:52 pm
Dale — thanks to you as well.
November 17, 2008 at 2:19 pm
[...] join other bloggers in extending kudos to Henry Karlson for writing this excellent open letter to President-Elect Obama. Though it will probably go unheeded, one must always have – dare I say it – [...]
November 17, 2008 at 3:14 pm
Henry, Thanks for this again. FYI, my name is William Eunice if you wanted to add my name to the list.
November 17, 2008 at 3:23 pm
William
Got it! Thanks again!
November 17, 2008 at 3:46 pm
[...] Originally posted by Henry Karlson at Vox Nova. Possibly related posts: (automatically generated)Editorial Roundup [...]
November 17, 2008 at 5:17 pm
Just posted it on my blog. Sign me up!
November 17, 2008 at 5:24 pm
Mark Shea:
Done! And as with everyone else, thank you for your support for this!
November 17, 2008 at 6:11 pm
Excellent letter. Please sign me up. I will place this open letter in our church bulletin and ask parishioners to sign it. Also will post on my website. Prayers for this good effort. God bless!
November 17, 2008 at 6:34 pm
Fr. Phil Bloom
I’ve added your name to the list; thanks for the link to the letter from your webpage, for the prayers, and the desire to bring their forward to your parishioners!
November 17, 2008 at 7:05 pm
[...] Online Petition Posted in Uncategorized by cggant on November 18th, 2008 An Open Letter to President-Elect Barack Obama [...]
November 17, 2008 at 7:08 pm
I’ve added the Open Letter to my blog located at http://catholicliberal.wordpress.com/
I’d also like to add my name to the signers if that is convenient.
November 17, 2008 at 7:27 pm
Christopher G: Done and done. Thanks for your support as well!
November 17, 2008 at 8:36 pm
I’ve put it on my blog, too. Please add my name to the signatories.
November 17, 2008 at 8:37 pm
Please add my name! Thank you so much! Linda Schuldt
November 17, 2008 at 8:39 pm
For the record, my full name is Robert King, OP. My blog posting is here.
November 17, 2008 at 8:41 pm
[...] I was pleased to be one of the initial endorsers of the following open letter to president-elect Barack Obama, spearheaded and drafted by my co-blogger at Vox Nova, Henry Karlson. Additional signatures and supporters here. [...]
November 17, 2008 at 8:43 pm
Copied also at CatholicAnarchy.org.
November 17, 2008 at 9:40 pm
Posted at my blog.
November 17, 2008 at 9:58 pm
I’d like to add my name to the petition also please. Thanks!
November 17, 2008 at 10:11 pm
The Lady in the Pew has posted the letter. Please add my name. Thanks.
November 17, 2008 at 10:54 pm
Please add my name: Mark Gordon from Suicide of the West
November 18, 2008 at 3:14 am
Thank Br. Robert, Linda, Peter, Kelly and Mark G once again. I got your names added and for those who had them, blog on the list of cross-posts.
November 18, 2008 at 4:26 am
I think we left some things out, as it’s necessary to combine pro-life arguments with anti-war arguments, but I agree with everything in the letter.
I’d like my name added to the letter: Michael Mlekoday.
Thanks.
November 18, 2008 at 4:32 am
Michael
I agree with embracing the full spectrum of life issues as should be clear in the posts I’ve written on VN in the past. But I wanted to produce a focused letter which could bring people together in agreement as we send it to Obama. Of course, this is only the start, and other concerns should be addressed later.
I’ve added your name. Thanks!
November 18, 2008 at 6:41 am
Pansy and Peony have added this letter. Thank you.
November 18, 2008 at 7:22 am
This is the kind of dialogal overture that the Catholic Bishops should be undertaking. I give the link to this on my weblog. Vox Nova is a voice of sanity, bringing liberal and conservative Catholics together in a very valuable way.
November 18, 2008 at 8:22 am
Pansy
Thanks — and I get the crosslink up now!
November 18, 2008 at 8:23 am
Spirit of Vatican II
Yes, I hope an effort like this can be established to help get a sane discussion going, and one which engages and works with and not against a common ground, as the starting point of any future dialogue. I am pleased with the result so far.
November 18, 2008 at 8:56 am
Please add me to this letter.
November 18, 2008 at 9:01 am
Mr. Karlson:
I’m posting this letter on my blog, “Confessions of a Liberal Traditionalist”
In addition, please email me, and I will give you my name to add to the letter. Thanks!
November 18, 2008 at 9:14 am
[...] posted at Vox Nova: Catholic Perspectives on Culture, Society, and Politics Possibly related posts: (automatically generated)The Choice To Be Pro-LifeObama’s Promise to [...]
November 18, 2008 at 9:23 am
I added the letter on my blog:
http://janknegt.eccwireless.com/blog.html
November 18, 2008 at 10:06 am
Very good letter…
November 18, 2008 at 10:09 am
Thank you for this effort. Please add my name to your letter.
I also plan on sending the President-elect my own letter regarding abortion and other life issues.
November 18, 2008 at 11:05 am
Please add my name.
November 18, 2008 at 11:37 am
More thanks to everyone; I will keep adding names/blogs as I have time and catch them. If I somehow miss one, let me know.
November 18, 2008 at 11:39 am
HENRY KARLSON:
Do you have an email address? I would like to give you my name to add to the petition.
November 18, 2008 at 11:48 am
JDCand
I sent you an e-mail. It should be there already (I hope).
November 18, 2008 at 2:56 pm
Please, add my signature. Also, I crossposted this to my blog, Vivificat!
http://vivificat1.blogspot.com
-Theo
November 18, 2008 at 2:59 pm
We have posted it as well.
http://marysaggies.blogspot.com/2008/11/open-letter-to-president-elect-barack.html
November 18, 2008 at 3:10 pm
Marcel
Thank you as well; I’ve added you to both the online signatures and to the bloglist now.
November 18, 2008 at 3:21 pm
Henry,
Thanks.
FYI – “LeJeune” has one “n”
November 18, 2008 at 3:27 pm
Sorry about that typo! Should be fixed now.
November 18, 2008 at 4:14 pm
The abortion issue is probably the most annoying in politics – and uniquely American. Beholden to respective interest groups, both sides can never find common ground. The terms “pro-life” and “pro-choice” are screwy to begin with.
Every Supreme Court nomination goes through the same spiel. Needless to say, a justice’s ruling on Roe v. Wade should have NOTHING to do with his views on abortion. I like Kennedy the most, he’s not as predictable as the others. Abortion should not be on constitutional level (and neither should a gay marriage ban, *$#*!) – that’s how this whole circus started. Obviously, abortion should never be outlawed completely, but with the American situation, no reasonable solution is possible. It goes without saying that a complete abortion ban would never pass anywhere. Certain restrictions could find a fairly broad consensus – like the European models – but that’s all blocked by Roe v Wade.
So…the man rumored to become attorney general was the key guy behind the Marc Rich pardon. Well, it fits that Hillary will be secretary of state.
Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose.
As Georg Buechner wrote, peace to the huts, war on the palaces.
November 18, 2008 at 4:33 pm
I think this is an excellent, reasonable appeal. I’ve posted it to my blog as well. Keep up the good work!
November 18, 2008 at 4:43 pm
I have added this to my site.
o{]:¬)
November 18, 2008 at 4:48 pm
Very well said! I am posting your letter on my blog. Add my name please.
November 18, 2008 at 5:13 pm
Well said. I had been considering authoring just such a letter myself! May God aid us in this worthy cause.
November 18, 2008 at 5:23 pm
Please add my name to the list of signees.
November 18, 2008 at 5:31 pm
Ken and Fr. John: I saw you signed it on your websites, so I put your names on the list here. Thanks for the blog posts!
Zach: Added.
Kacy: I couldn’t find it on your blog.
Steven M Andrews: Thanks!
November 18, 2008 at 5:31 pm
Excellent letter. Please add my name to the list as well. Pax tecum.
November 18, 2008 at 5:33 pm
Megan: Done! Thanks!
November 18, 2008 at 5:58 pm
Please add my name as well. Thanks!
November 18, 2008 at 5:58 pm
I’d Like to add my name as well, and I am posting this at my blog http://tmason47.typepad.com
November 18, 2008 at 6:15 pm
Please add my name as well.
November 18, 2008 at 6:21 pm
Kathy, Tim and Kevin: done. And thanks for the post, Tim.
November 18, 2008 at 6:38 pm
I think this letter represents a very serious, respectful, yet faithful engagement with our President-Elect. Thank you.
November 18, 2008 at 6:44 pm
Please add my name!
November 18, 2008 at 6:58 pm
MAGNIFICENT, BRILLIANT and most APPROPRIATE
Am adding it to my blog (the Black Biretta [http://blackbiretta.blogspot.com]) and to the webpage for the Confraternity of Catholic Clergy [http://www.catholic-clergy.org] (of which I am President)
May Divine Grace guide the hearts of all politicians and citizens
November 18, 2008 at 7:17 pm
Fr. Stephen — thank you!
November 18, 2008 at 7:17 pm
John Anthony D’Arpino: done!
November 18, 2008 at 7:19 pm
Father John: thank you for your kind words! I will put up your posts in the cross-link section when the letter is up on your blogs (or in the morning, if I do not see it before I have to go offline).
November 18, 2008 at 7:32 pm
Henry,
Please add my name to the list. Thank you.
November 18, 2008 at 7:32 pm
Excellent letter. Please add my name: Mary C Borneman
November 18, 2008 at 7:37 pm
Brian and Mary — thank you! And done.
November 18, 2008 at 7:55 pm
Henry,
Please add my name to the list. Thank you very much for taking the time to organize all of this!
- Sylwia Matlosz
November 18, 2008 at 7:56 pm
Posted just now, and would like very much my name added!
November 18, 2008 at 8:07 pm
anti-FOCA Petition
http://www.fightfoca.com/
November 18, 2008 at 9:05 pm
Please add my name as well-Susan Boedefeld
Thank you and God bless.
November 18, 2008 at 9:11 pm
Please add my name to the list: David Turner, Longview, WA
November 18, 2008 at 9:17 pm
I have posted the letter (http://holycookie.blogspot.com/2008/11/open-letter-to-president-elect-obama.html). Please add my name as well.
November 18, 2008 at 9:20 pm
I am fully supportive of your position and this petition. However, I don’t think that there is any hope of Obama changing his mind. He is too beholden to the special interest lefty groups that got him elected.
Obama may not be THE antichrist, but he sure is AN antichrist in the immoral stand that he has taken.
May Our Lady of Guadelupe help us!
November 18, 2008 at 9:26 pm
I have added my name as well a posted and linked to this site.
We have specifically prayed for our leaders-elect daily since November 5, and will continue seeking the Holy Spirit’s wisdom upon those who unfortunately promote a culture of death rather than our Lord’s Culture of Life.
November 18, 2008 at 9:30 pm
[...] An Open Letter to President-Elect Barack Obama [...]
November 18, 2008 at 10:00 pm
Please add my name. It is good to send positive feedback to our new Presidet-Elect with the Spirit of Truth. Thank You!
November 18, 2008 at 10:04 pm
Please include my name, too: Adam Mateo Fierro
November 18, 2008 at 10:24 pm
I have posted this letter on my blog:
http://theschoolofmary.blogspot.com/2008/11/adding-my-name-to-open-letter-to.html
In Jesu, per Mariam,
Matthew Hardesty
November 18, 2008 at 10:25 pm
Henry,
Please add my name too.
November 18, 2008 at 10:28 pm
I have added this to my blog at CatholicMountain.com and please add me to the list of signers:
Allen Hebert
November 18, 2008 at 10:28 pm
A most excellent letter, which I would be pleased to sign!
I’m posting it at my blog, The Practicing Catholic.
Thank you,
Heather Barrett
November 18, 2008 at 10:33 pm
Glad to see such a positive reaction! We can engage our new president on these issues without sacrificing our own moral integrity as Catholic advocates of the Culture of Life.
St. Maximilian Kolbe, patron saint of the pro-life movement, pray for us!
November 18, 2008 at 11:46 pm
Great letter! Please add my name to the signatures.
November 18, 2008 at 11:49 pm
Posted on my Blog, Henry. Great job.
November 18, 2008 at 11:55 pm
I’ve posted it on my blog too. Mahalo!
November 19, 2008 at 12:44 am
Excellent letter Please add my name to the list.
Andrea Brown
Anaheim, CA
November 19, 2008 at 12:47 am
Excellent letter and please add my name to the list of signers. Thank you.
November 19, 2008 at 1:30 am
I have added this letter at my blog verbum veritatis :http;//truthbloggedhere.blogspot.com
November 19, 2008 at 1:48 am
Please add my name.
November 19, 2008 at 3:06 am
Once again, a massive thank you to all who signed during the night. I’ve put in all the addition, again.
Alli: I put a link to your blog, but please contact us so as to know how to fully sign your name. Then I will add it!
November 19, 2008 at 3:18 am
Mickey
Yes, it’s great to see so many people joining in!
November 19, 2008 at 3:27 am
Dear Henry Karlson,
Please add my name, Christopher R. Altieri, to the list of signatories. I have also published the letter at my blog, The Lazy Disciple: http://www.fidetrat.blogspot.com
In Dno,
C
November 19, 2008 at 8:14 am
I’m italian. I’m so worried about FOCA appoval. I support your letter. Human life, liberty and dignity are under attack. I hope President Obama will think deeply about consequences.
November 19, 2008 at 8:47 am
Chris,
Got it and thanks!
November 19, 2008 at 8:47 am
Lorenzo,
Keep the United States in your prayers! And thanks for your support!
November 19, 2008 at 9:01 am
Please add my name as well. Thanks.
November 19, 2008 at 9:05 am
Nick — done, and you are welcome. Thanks for your support!
November 19, 2008 at 9:24 am
I will also sign.
November 19, 2008 at 9:44 am
Thanks, Chad! Done.
November 19, 2008 at 10:15 am
Please add my name
November 19, 2008 at 10:20 am
Please add my name as well.
Susan Windley-Daoust
November 19, 2008 at 10:43 am
Please add my name to the list. Thank you.
November 19, 2008 at 10:46 am
Please add my name.
November 19, 2008 at 10:51 am
Michael, Susan, Lisa and Lisa: Done, and thanks.
November 19, 2008 at 10:54 am
Well done and nicely written. Please add my name.
November 19, 2008 at 11:03 am
Henry,
Please add my name.
November 19, 2008 at 11:09 am
Erica, David: done, and thanks!
November 19, 2008 at 11:12 am
Please add my name also.
November 19, 2008 at 11:41 am
Henry,
I cross-posted at my blog the other day, but feel free to use my actual name on the letter.
Thanks again for putting this together.
November 19, 2008 at 11:45 am
John — done, and thanks.
November 19, 2008 at 11:46 am
Paul
You are welcome, but remember, it is a group effort, and the more involved, the better. So thank you!
November 19, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Please sing me in
November 19, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Please sign me up, as well (Brian T. Coughlin); thanks for your efforts with this!
November 19, 2008 at 1:38 pm
Thank you for this effort. Please add my name as well.
Peace,
Darren Krakowski
November 19, 2008 at 1:42 pm
Please add my name, Anthony F. Miller, also.
Thanks,
-Tony
November 19, 2008 at 4:21 pm
Once again, a thank you to everyone who has decided to add their name to the signatures to support this effort. I got all the new additions up (I think). Sorry it took longer than normal; I will probably be slower from now to the end of the week in doing the updates, but I will still do them.
November 19, 2008 at 4:42 pm
Please add my name: Joseph S. arena
November 19, 2008 at 5:37 pm
Please add my name to the list.
I also posted this letter on my blog:
http://phatcatholic.blogspot.com/2008/11/open-letter-to-president-elect-barack.html
November 19, 2008 at 6:24 pm
Joseph and Nicholas: thank you, as well. Got your additions!
November 19, 2008 at 6:44 pm
Adding one more small voice. Posted to my blog.
November 19, 2008 at 9:40 pm
I posted this on my blog and signed my name to it.
November 19, 2008 at 9:56 pm
Don’t have a blog to cross-post; but would be grateful to have my name added as well. Followed link from Mark Shea, if anyone’s keeping score. :-)
I’d actually suggest making *sure* Obama sees it – maybe collect sigs until Jan 19th, and then print off a copy and mail it? Maybe that’s not the best way; but it’s a great letter; and he needs to know that Biden and Daschle don’t speak for all of us and that FOCA would be a real problem.
November 19, 2008 at 10:02 pm
Please add my name to your list. Thank you for your work fighting FOCA.
November 19, 2008 at 11:06 pm
I cross-posted this at my blog, Catholic Father. Please add my name to the list. Let’s all pray that this is successful!
November 20, 2008 at 3:47 am
Thanks once again, I got all the additions put on overnight.
November 20, 2008 at 3:50 am
Susan M:
With the extra signatures, I am indeed considering sending him another copy, with all the updates, in January. I did send three copies already to him, with the initial signatories, based upon various addresses I had. But the hope is to increase attention to this as well, in various ways, so that it will be assured not only Obama, but many other politicians, know of it.
November 20, 2008 at 7:32 am
Dear Henry,
I will pray for US. Not only prayers. I write for the catholic newspaper “Avvenire” and on November 13th I wrote about FOCA approval and abortion approach in US. Unfortunately I did not know anything about your great letter.
My article: http://www.parrocchiasacrocuore.arezzo.it/news-dettaglio.php?ID=139
(download jpg file, in Italian, obviously), in the site of my parish.
Go on with your battle for life, may God bless you all.
November 20, 2008 at 8:55 am
Oh, and, if I can, I want to sign your letter. But I’m not American, sigh…
November 20, 2008 at 9:07 am
Add me please. Well written & thoughtful & I appreciate that you are trying to work together. Just arguing doesn’t accomplish anything.
November 20, 2008 at 1:11 pm
This statement has been published at our Catholic philosophy and Theology blog
http://gratiasupernaturam.blogspot.com/
Thank you, Andrew Lang
November 20, 2008 at 2:53 pm
How does one sign one’s name to this letter? It is well-written indeed!
November 20, 2008 at 2:59 pm
Mary and Claire:
I just added your names here. I sent in a copy of the letter with the original signatures, but, rest assured, people adding their name will be made known. I am trying to figure out the best way to do so; it will probably mean, among other things, an updated version of the letter being sent to Obama, but that is not all I hope to do.
November 20, 2008 at 2:59 pm
Andrew thanks, I just added your link!
November 20, 2008 at 3:02 pm
Lorenzo,
I understand the desire, but I am trying to keep it with those in America, for obvious reasons. But there could be something more to do in the future, which might not have to be merely American-centered.
Thanks for all your kind words!
November 20, 2008 at 4:34 pm
Please add my name to the list. I agree we need to continue to think positively, and your doing a wonderful thing. The Constitution is based on the Bill of Rights, and the 1st part says that an American citizen has the Right to LIFE, then liberty, and then the pursuit of happiness. So, first, came LIFE. Let us continue to support those who cannot defend themselves. Thank you for all your efforts.
November 20, 2008 at 4:53 pm
We are all praying for a miracle here! Please add my name to the list.
November 20, 2008 at 5:44 pm
A very well written letter–please add my name and my husband’s as well.
Pamela Brill
David J. Brill
November 20, 2008 at 5:47 pm
I support it and I have cross posted it my blog http://aeternaveritas.blogspot.com/
November 20, 2008 at 5:53 pm
Kathrin, Maureen, Pam, David and Adolfo:
Thank you!
November 20, 2008 at 11:04 pm
add my name please
November 20, 2008 at 11:07 pm
Please add my signature to the letter:
Fr. Philip N. Powell, OP
God bless, Fr. Philip
November 21, 2008 at 1:40 am
added to our website
http://www.catholic-clergy.org
great work
Fr John Trigilio, Jr
President
CCC
November 21, 2008 at 4:35 am
Rev. James and Fr. Philip, thanks, added!
Fr. John, thanks once again – got it now!
November 21, 2008 at 6:11 am
Please sign my name to this letter. Thank you and God bless!
November 21, 2008 at 6:14 am
Please add my name to the list! Thank you and God bless!
November 21, 2008 at 8:05 am
Margaret
Done, and thank you!
November 21, 2008 at 9:47 am
Please add my name to the list, thanks.
November 21, 2008 at 1:46 pm
Thanks for all you are doing–please add my name.
November 21, 2008 at 2:12 pm
Tyler and Joann
Done, and thanks.
November 21, 2008 at 4:12 pm
Thank you! I am with you in prayer and fasting. Please add my name to the petition.
November 21, 2008 at 10:56 pm
Please add me to the letter signatures. God Bless and keep up the good work!
November 22, 2008 at 3:55 am
Barbara and Brian:
Done, and thank you!
November 23, 2008 at 9:52 am
Thank you.
November 23, 2008 at 9:51 pm
Thank you. Please add my name.
November 24, 2008 at 5:32 am
PRAY TO STOP LEGALIZED ABORTION
AND TO FOSTER THE VIRTUE OF PURITY
_________________________________________________________________________________
PRAYER VIGIL TO STOP
FREEDOM OF CHOICE ACT
&
FOR RELATED INTENTIONS
Will you not wait and watch with Jesus,
and pray for America? [Matt. 26: 38-40]
2nd Eucharistic Vigil for America: During Thanksgiving,
pray before The Most Blessed Sacrament
From 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 26th
(Eve of Thanksgiving Day)
until 12:00 p.m. (Midnight), Thursday, November 27th
(Thanksgiving Day)
Read more at: [ ______________________ ]
_________________________________________________________________________________
Please arrange to make at least one Holy Hour or even a longer vigil (3-9 hours) before Our Lord Jesus Truly Present in The Most Blessed Sacrament sometime between Wednesday Evening and Thursday Midnight, praying:
`
For the end to all legalized abortion, and to stop any new pro-abortion or pro-infanticide laws, including defeat of the FOCA (“Freedom of Choice Act”);
For an ethical economic recovery in the United States of America and throughout the world
(See: Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, Market Economy and Ethics)[http://www.acton.org/publications/occasionalpapers/publicat_occasionalpapers_ratzinger.php?view=print)];
For the United States Catholic Bishops to process solemnly and to install into the National Shrine of The Immaculate Conception at Washington the statue of Our Lady of America with the Lily of Purity extended from Her right hand for the protection of America ; and,
For His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, His health, sanctity and longevity.
Make a Vigil before The Most Blessed Sacrament:
By going to an existing perpetual eucharistic adoration chapel;
By asking your local bishop or pastor to have a special period of Exposition of The Most Blessed Sacrament for this purpose, preferably through the night; or,
By going to any Catholic Church before The Blessed Sacrament reposed in The Tabernacle and remaining for one (1) to three (3) hours praying for your own intentions and those listed above sometime between 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, at 6:00 p.m. and Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, at Midnight.
Adult men, in particular, are called to this Vigil, even through the night, remaining for at least for one (1) to four (4) hours during the nocturnal period from late Wednesday to early Thursday, Thanksgiving Day [and, if possible, for an efficacious novena of nine (9) hours sometime between 6:00 p.m. Wednesday and 6:00 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day]. During Thanksgiving Day, please consider “fasting” from just one TV football game, and use that time to take the family to Church and make a Holy Hour praying in thanksgiving before The Most Blessed Sacrament to The Most Holy Trinity. Remember “Eucharist” means “Thanksgiving”. For those who cannot go to Church, gather together at home and pray The Rosary in thanksgiving for the gifts granted to the United States of America, and for the above intentions.
November 24, 2008 at 5:25 pm
Dont be such a namby pamby here! Good will must be more than reitterated, but expressed less concilliary here sir! Waking up the world… from Washington to a refugee camp in Africa or anyone Else for that matter is paramount. Imploring God to do all while getting nowhere with the people under the veil of darkness is ludicrous.
November 25, 2008 at 2:18 pm
Please add my name to the open letter. Thanks.
November 25, 2008 at 5:29 pm
[...] are absolutely right to denounce the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA), which is why I supported Henry’s open letter to Obama. But I must make two points about the vehemence on [...]
November 25, 2008 at 7:02 pm
Please add my name to the list. We must all work hard to save our unborn children. Thank you for your efforts.
November 25, 2008 at 11:24 pm
I would like to extend this invitation to both parties at the Congress, that only discuss the topic every four years. I exhort also the fathers of 30% of children that are born out of the wedlock in The States, to be responsible in taking care of their own children.
Thanks in advance for adding my name to the list.
November 26, 2008 at 3:04 pm
William, Geanie, and Gabriel: done.
November 26, 2008 at 11:12 pm
I am posting your letter in my blog at livejournal.com
November 26, 2008 at 11:22 pm
Oh, and obviously you need my real name for your petition: it is Robert Bruce Lewis.
November 27, 2008 at 3:23 am
Digby: Thanks, got your name put up, and will more more directly to your blog post when I know where exactly it is on livejournal.
November 27, 2008 at 5:07 am
I am “publius_aelius” (as a “user name” at livejournal.com, but it’s “friends only.”
November 27, 2008 at 7:36 am
Digby: ok, I think I got it then.
And I just added the Washington Times article which mentioned the letter.
November 30, 2008 at 3:58 pm
I have added the Open Letter to Obama in my blog
http://catholicpoliticalblog.blogspot.com/
thank you for allowing it’s transmission!
December 6, 2008 at 2:35 am
I would like to be added as a co-signer of this letter.
December 6, 2008 at 4:03 pm
Please add my name to the list.
Well done. Thanks.
December 18, 2008 at 2:11 am
Henry, is it too late to add my name?
Do I have to be an American to sign it?
December 18, 2008 at 4:04 am
Magella,
Since the letter says “As American Catholics,” it’s meant to be for Americans (since they are people who are potential voters, and people who are immediately affected by Obama’s presidency).
January 14, 2009 at 11:19 pm
Thanks for your good letter. I’ve posted the it in the “Contact Your Elected Officials” area of my site at http://www.catholicanew.com/abortion-action-gov-pt-foca-karlson-20081114.htm
From there people can see how they can participate in your letter and also use its points to formulate their own letter to President-elect Obama, their Congressional delegates, and the sponsors of FOCA.
January 21, 2009 at 12:26 pm
Please add my name to this letter.
January 29, 2009 at 3:46 pm
Please add my name to the list to defeat FOCA.