To the editor:
“Bells for Babies” is a national public remembrance for the 50,000,000 babies who have died in the United States over the past 37 years through surgical abortions. At noon on Friday, Jan. 22, all churches in the area are encouraged to ring their bells 50 times, one for each million babies whose lives have ended.
On this day, prayers are encouraged for families to hold together in God’s love and discipline. May the love of God, our Creator of life and love for our fellow man, especially our families, the sick, the elderly, our enemies and others, prevail. May the virtues of charity and chastity prevail! May the sins of selfishness, violence, wars, perversion of human sexuality, unforgiveness, the rejection of spouses and children, unborn or born, cease.
Anyone anywhere is encouraged to join in prayer, at home, on the road, at work, in school, at church and other places for Jesus’ love, forgiveness, mercy and peace in individuals, families, communities, nations and among nations.
“Bells for Babies” is encouraged by the Daughters of Isabella, Mary Magdalene Circle No. 639. January 22nd is the 37th anniversary of legalized abortions. St. Mary’s Church of Presque Isle, Maine will ring the bells at noon. The “Angelus” and other prayers will be recited in the church. All are welcome.
Johnnie Cancelarich,
Pro-Life chairman
Presque Isle
To the editor:
As an individual nears the end of their lives, they sometimes are in need of a caring environment to help them and their loved ones through the difficult journey. The Maine Veterans’ Homes in Caribou offers a wonderful End-of-Life program. We make the room home-like with special blankets and sheets as well as provide aroma therapy and soft music for relaxation and comfort. We offer 24-hour RN coverage to provide pain control and comfort. Primary care nursing is provided in which the same CNAs are assigned over an extended period of time. If available, the Hayward Suite at Cary Medical Center is offered to the family. Families are free to stay at bedside if they choose. Spiritual needs of the family and resident are met. Education is provided as the resident moves through their journey.
End-of-life education is provided to staff members to enable them to meet the needs of the resident and family and to answer their questions. Our staff is qualified to care for residents as they progress through the stages of their end-of-life journey and are trained to identify the signs of progression. We are here to support you through this difficult time.
Families are not always available to be with their loved ones in this time of need to provide support, comfort and a loving hand to hold. We greatly appreciate our volunteers who give their time to be with residents as they progress so that they are not alone. We are always willing to welcome new volunteers to our program to provide this very rewarding service to those in need.
Volunteers are welcome to meet with our Activities Department Manager for more information in regards to bedside volunteering.
Trish Thibodeau
Maine Veterans Home
Caribou
