This week and next, we join in prayer and penance to mark the 50th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that affirmed the constitutional right to abortion in the U.S. in 1973. The U.S. Supreme Court overturned this decision on June 24, 2022. Abortion rights are now being defined by individual states. Many state and federal laws continue to be hostile toward preborn children. Prayer and advocacy are still very much needed!
In his homily during opening Mass of the 2022 National Prayer Vigil for Life, Archbishop William E. Lori, then Chairman of the USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities, said:
“If, later this year, the Supreme Court does overturn Roe, in whole or in part, what should we as Catholics be prepared to do? First, we must be a clear and united voice that says our society and laws can and must protect and care for both women and their children. As a matter of fundamental justice, we must work to protect in law the lives of the unborn, society’s most vulnerable and defenseless members. And we must redouble our efforts to accompany women and couples who are facing unexpected or difficult pregnancies, offering them loving and compassionate care through ministries such as Walking with Moms in Need and many others.”
While the Church celebrates the victory of overturning Roe v. Wade, as Archbishop Lori indicated in his homily last January, there is still much work and prayer needed. January 19–27 are designated for the 9 Days for Life (USA) novena for the protection of human life. On January 19–20, there is the National Prayer Vigil for Life (USA). The March for Life in Washington, D.C., is scheduled for January 20. There are many other marches happening in cities throughout the U.S. The Bishops of the United States encourage us to participate in a day of prayer and penance on January 23, the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children. There are a great number of resources available at respectlife.org.
Please join in praying this prayer from Day 1 of the 9 Days for Life novena. Para la versión en español, haga clic aquí.
Heavenly Father, thank you
for the precious gift of life.
Help us to cherish and protect
this gift, even in the midst of
fear, pain, and suffering.
Give us love for all people,
especially the most vulnerable,
and help us bear witness to the
truth that every life is worth living.
Grant us the humility to accept
help when we are in need,
and teach us to be merciful to all.
Through our words and actions,
may others encounter the
outstretched hands of Your mercy.
We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Amen.
Prayer credit: Every Life is Worth Living, © 2015, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved.
Image credit: Ocskay Mark/stock.adobe.com
