South Bend, Ind., May 12, 2009 / 10:04 am
This week, several seniors from the University of Notre Dame announced they will not be attending their commencement ceremony, and called on others to show "one final response" to President Obama’s invitation by not showing up. An alternative vigil representing the "true spirit of Notre Dame," will take place at the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes and will be presided over by Fr. Frank Pavone.
ND Response was formed by students after the announcement of President Obama’s invitation to Notre Dame was announced. They called upon President Fr. John J. Jenkins to retract his commencement offer and honorary degree to Obama, but last month Jenkins told the group that "conditions for constructive dialogue simply do not exist."
In response, the organization has announced that Priests for Life Director Fr. Frank Pavone will lead a Vigil for Life in the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes during the commencement ceremony.
Fr. Pavone will be leading the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary and directing five-minute meditations on each decade.