On September 14, Presentation-Sacred Heart Parish hosted a holy hour at Sacred Heart Church in Esopus to observe the National Day of Remembrance for Aborted Children. 

Local Catholics gathered to adore the Blessed Sacrament, focusing on reparation and intercession for the estimated 65-70 million preborn children killed by abortion since Roe v. Wade legalized it in 1973. The recent Dobbs v. Jackson decision returned abortion regulation to states but did not abolish it. Prayers were offered for greater respect for human life from conception to natural death, and for those affected by abortion, including parents and industry workers.

“Our parish joined Catholics on both sides of the Hudson River in marking this day prayerfully,” Father Arthur F. Rojas, pastor of Presentation-Sacred Heart Parish, noted.He mentioned events in Plattekill, Ellenville, and Dutchess County. Rojas highlighted the active role of Ulster County parishes in the Ulster Deanery Respect Life Committee, which coordinates local Catholic pro-life efforts, including opposition to Proposal One. This controversial amendment aims to protect abortion rights and add gender theory to New York’s nondiscrimination clause.

Presentation-Sacred Heart Parish serves Esopus town, including Port Ewen, through its two churches. The Port Ewen site also houses the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Hudson. On September 21, the parish will host a Carmelite-themed day of recollection. More information is available at their website.