As we celebrate National Family Planning Awareness Week beginning July 23, I remember back a few years ago, when I had the opportunity to spend time with some married friends as they awaited the birth of their baby boy. As the mother went into labor, I was struck by the shared sense of awe that permeated the moment.
I’m a convert and perhaps a bit of an unusual one at that. I was born and raised right here – pronounced “Ri cheer” in this part of the country. I was raised United Methodist and even served two years as a licensed United Methodist pastor. I married a northern girl who wasn’t Catholic. And I was ordained a deacon two years ago.