Each year, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) denotes October as Respect Life Month. This year, Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of Arlington, chairman of the USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities, calls on Catholics to renew their commitment to the legal protection of human life, to support policies and service ministries that assist mothers, and to extend compassion to those suffering from participation in abortion.
This year, Respect Life Month occurs amidst an embattled state of Missouri, which currently faces both a steady onslaught of executions and a proposed amendment to add a right to abortion to the state constitution. In unity with the USCCB, the Missouri Catholic Conference pledges to redouble its efforts to fight these issues and promote the sanctity and dignity of all human life.
The full statement by Bishop Burbidge can be accessed here.