On June 24, 2022, the Supreme Court of the United States issued its ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which overturned the Roe v. Wade decision that had legalized abortion in all 50 states.
In advance of the anniversary of the Court’s landmark decision, Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of Arlington, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, urged the faithful to engage elected officials on life issues, and reflected on the power of the Eucharist to transform hearts and culture:
“On June 24, 2024, we celebrate the second anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, ending the tragic reign of Roe v. Wade. It is a day for thanksgiving to God for answering our prayers and blessing the many years of hard work. This anniversary calls us to reflect on where we have been and where we are going.
“The reversal of Roe v. Wade brought new opportunities to protect innocent human life. While some states have done this, others have enacted extreme abortion policies. Children have been left vulnerable to abortion until the moment of birth. Kansas, Michigan, and Ohio drastically expanded access to abortion. This fall, as many as ten additional states will have abortion referenda on their ballots, allowing voters to enshrine ‘abortion rights’ and override existing pro-life safeguards.
“At the same time, Congress has been promoting many pro-abortion policies while largely ignoring our calls to prioritize maternal health and support for children and families in need. In the spirit of faithful citizenship, I urge Catholics to engage their elected officials on all issues endangering life.
“As we navigate this shifting political landscape, I cannot help but think the Holy Spirit has inspired our National Eucharistic Revival for such a time as this. Christ’s Real Presence in the Eucharist has the power to transform our own hearts and the heart of our culture. Even now, Catholics across the country are processing with Christ in the Eucharist from city to city, with their journeys culminating in the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis.
“Strengthened by our Eucharistic Lord, each of us must rededicate ourselves to serving the cause of life. May our Catholic parishes continue to welcome, embrace, and accompany women facing unexpected or challenging pregnancies, offering material, emotional, and spiritual support. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the countless individual Catholics who have dedicated themselves to parish and community initiatives, like Walking with Moms in Need.
“May we never tire of sharing Christ’s message of mercy with all who are suffering in the aftermath of an abortion. The Church continually offers hope and healing to women and men through ministries like Project Rachel.
“I invite you to join a growing community of Catholics who have subscribed to Respect Life Prayer and Action. When you sign up, you will receive prayers, alerts to contact Congress and government leaders on important legislation, and ways to strengthen a culture of life in your community. Sign up today at respectlife.org/prayer-and-action.
“Jesus tells us: “I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). I pray we will be united in our efforts to protect God’s gift of life, in every stage and circumstance. Let us draw strength from our communion in the Body and Blood of Christ our Savior.”