Statement on the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Supreme Court Decision
Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V.
June 24, 2022

In its Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision announced today, the U.S. Supreme Court has struck down the unjust 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling which effectively opened the door to abortion across the land; today’s decision returns to individual states the opportunity to restrict or prohibit abortion, thereby protecting the lives of preborn children. Today’s Supreme Court decision will save the lives of millions of children who otherwise would never see the light of day or experience the warmth of a loving family.

As Catholics, we stand with the teaching of the Catholic Church which has always upheld the dignity of life and spoken out against abortion at all stages of pregnancy. The Church’s opposition comes not only from its teaching on the sanctity of life from the moment of conception, but also from a moral imperative that transcends any religious doctrine: Developing life is human life and as such deserves the protection of the law.

I recognize, sadly, that in Massachusetts where abortion is already codified into state law, the Dobbs decision will have little impact. We must continue our efforts to defend the right to life for unborn children through advocacy and prayer. At the same time, we must also redouble our commitment to providing material and emotional support to expectant mothers who face a difficult or unintended pregnancy and those who find it difficult to care for their children after they are born. The Diocese of Fall River has a Pro-Life Apostolate whose mission is to provide support, assistance, and accompaniment to expectant mothers.

As a society rooted in Christian and family values, we must also advocate for both federal and state laws that ensure that no mother or family lacks the basic resources needed to care for their children.

My hope and my prayer is that all men and women of good will, regardless of their faith tradition – or even if they have no faith – will work together to create a society where human life is respected in all stages and in every condition, especially the most defenseless and vulnerable among us.

Diocese of Fall River
Diocese of Fall River
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