African American Father's 2000

June 8, 2000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AFRICAN AMERICAN FATHER’S FOR LIFE 2000

"Reclaiming the Dignity of Fatherhood"

The National Black Catholic Apostolate for Life is calling on African American Fathers to stand boldly for the sacredness of life during the Father’s Day 2000 celebration.

African American Fathers for Life, will make a commitment to:

- Walk daily with God who is our Alpha and Omega.

	Stand unconditionally for the dignity and respect of human life from the moment of conception to its natural end.
	Accept the full responsibility for the fathering of their children.
	Reach out as African American Fathers for Life to children who are fatherless.
	Show love, respect, and compassion to our wives and children.

As Bishop Terry Steib, Bishop of Memphis and Chairman of the NCCB African American Catholic Committee states: " This celebration of African American Fathers for Life is a splendid opportunity for us to recognize our fathers and to encourage them to witness the Gospel of Life. The Black community is in serious need of positive male role models who will enhance the growth and development of our children."

According to Father James E. Goode, OFM, President of the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus and the National Black Catholic Apostolate for Life, NBCAL is also asking the Black community on Father’s Day 2000 to remember in prayer and stories the "African American Fathers" who accepted the call to fatherhood and who now have gone home to God.

Please join us in this African American Respect for Life Celebration.

For more information contact:

Dr. Beverly A. Carroll, Executive Director

NCCB Secretariat for African American Catholics

(202) 541-3177 Fax (202) 541-3088