RUTHERFORDTON — The Benedictine Sisters of Mary Queen of Peace Monastery are in the process of adding a chapel wing to their residence.
The new addition will also provide space for a classroom.
Also, using leftover rock from a project at their parish (Immaculate Conception in Forest City), the sisters made a stone pathway on the side of their house, linking the driveway to the stairs going up to the front porch. The project should be completed sometime in June. Learn more about the community at www.qopbenedictines.com.
— Giuliana Polinari Riley | Catholic News Herald
BELMONT — Noted international and African pro-life activist Obianuju Ekeocha provided a lively talk about pro-life efforts in Africa to Belmont Abbey College students April 17.
Ekeocha, an author and scientist from Nigeria, is the founder of Culture of Life Africa, which seeks to evangelize the pro-life message throughout Africa and has appeared on numerous media programs including EWTN and recently wrote “Target Africa: Ideological Neo-colonialism of the Twenty-first Century,” published by Ignatius Press.
Her talk focused on the economic pressures African countries face by western nations to accept contraception and abortion in their countries despite overwhelming local opposition. Specifically, Ekeocha highlighted western non-profits and government agencies, including those from the United States, which have pressured African governments to accept population control programs and abortion while simultaneously ignoring critically funding needs for water access, infrastructure development and education.
Ekeocha’s talk concluded by highlighting the successful effort of the Ugandan government to reduce AIDS by promoting virtue including abstinence outside marriage. The talk was sponsored by Our Lady of Grace Church in Indian Land, S.C., and supported by members of Crusaders for Life, Belmont Abbey College’s student pro-life organization.
— Mike FitzGerald, correspondent