In February 2013, Catholic Prayer Warrior Ralph Zuranski was awarded the coveted ACE wings award by the Bedford Knights Of Columbus Council 7641. Councils may recognize a non-knight once per calendar year by submitting an ACE Wing award application. There must be a written justification outlining the reasons the council believes the non-knight deserves to be recognized by the Knights of Columbus as a strong support of a culture of life. The non-knight must be a strong supporter of the right to life for the unborn.
Ralph was chosen for this wonderful honor because of his dedicated service to the pro-life community. For 2 years, he prayed in front of the Planned Parenthood clinic in Bedford, TX 6 days a week. He held a sign that had the message, “Tell Congress. No Tax Money For Planned Parenthood.”
He prayed 3 three rosaries each day from 7:30 AM – 8:15 AM for each person driving by on their way to work that God would have mercy on them and their families. He also prayed for all involved in the abortion industry and an end to this horrific crime against God. He fervently asked God to heal all the women wounded by abortionists and the souls of the babies murdered.
The ACE Awards Program was established to recognize those brother Knights and some community members who advocate for the rights of unborn children in public. ACE is an acronym for Pro-life without Apology, without Compromise, and without Exception.
To be eligible to receive the ACE award, brother Knights must participate in a minimum of 5 public events supporting a culture of life. 4 of the 5 events must have to do with protecting the unborn. They include events like: Pro-Life Sidewalk Counseling, Youth/Family Rally Volunteer Work at Women’s Center Christian Service 4 Life, 40 Days for Life, Pro-Life Lobby Day, Walk for Life, Standing for Life Banquets, Host a Pro-Life Rosary and Participate in Pro-Life Parades.
The 5th event can either be an event supporting the unborn or an event supporting a culture of life. Our Holy Father called us to protect life from conception to natural death therefore we must include those who are forgotten and left to die or are neglected.
Special Olympics events qualify as the fifth because many abortions are performed once it is discovered that the baby might have Downs Syndrome, or some other defect. Example events include: Special Olympics Volunteer Working/volunteering at a hospice, nursing home, or veterans hospital Providing entertainment for the residents of a hospice, nursing home, or veteran’s hospital.
Private events do not qualify. All events must be in a public forum. Brother Knights may request a second set of ACE wings for their Spouse.