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In Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and
returned the issue of abortion to the people's elected representatives
at both the state and federal level. Despite this monumental legal
victory, abortion policy is far from settled.
Sadly, over the past year, several states have used
this opportunity to not only keep abortion legal, but also to pursue
even more extreme pro-abortion policies. Currently, abortion is legal in
more states than not. Our dedicated efforts are desperately needed in
the months and years to come to protect preborn children and their
mothers from the tragedy of abortion.
In the Gospel, Jesus tells us that we are "the salt of the earth" and "the light of the world"
(Mt. 5:13-14). As Catholics, we have a duty to pursue the common good
and to work for the protection of the most vulnerable. Our faith, formed
by the teachings of the Church, should guide our engagement in civic
life.
Each of us is called to live out our faith publicly, witnessing to the Gospel. For,
"if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer
good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot" (Mt. 5:15-16). We cannot hide our faith under the "bushel basket." Rather, our "light must shine before others" (Mt. 5:15-16).
Inspired by the Gospel, we must do what we can to
end violence in the womb, to ensure that preborn children are fully
protected by our laws, and to support mothers and fathers in welcoming
and nurturing their children. May we all faithfully embrace our shared
Christian responsibility and be strengthened by God's grace when we
encounter resistance or persecution. Together, may we help build a
culture of life and civilization of love in our nation.
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