Statement from Bishop Frank J. Dewane Responding to "No-Limit Abortion" Law in New York

Let us be reminded that all Life begins at the moment of Conception, which for Catholics is not in dispute despite any new laws such as the recent law passed in New York State and introduced in the Virginia State Legislature.

Regarding abortion, the Catechism of the Catholic Church states: "Human life must be respected and protected absolutely from the moment of conception. From the first moment of his existence, a human being must be recognized as having the rights of a person - among which is the inviolable right of every innocent being to life. Since the first century the Church has affirmed the moral evil of every procured abortion. This teaching has not changed and remains unchangeable. Direct abortion, that is to say, abortion willed either as an end or a means, is gravely contrary to the moral law." (2270-2271)

This should remind us that the killing of an innocent child through abortion is abhorrent. It is natural to want to speak out about such egregiousness, but first all are called to pray for an end to the scourge that is abortion. Pray also that our legislators and judges at the state and national levels stop celebrating laws that will end the life of a child.

If you disagree with laws such as the one recently passed in New York State, please write to your state and federal politicians to share your thoughts, disagreement and disgust on this critical issue. Meaningful change pertaining to this matter will not come until all stand together to give a voice to the voiceless, the vulnerable unborn children who in some places can now potentially face death up until the moment of their birth.

+ Frank J. Dewane
Bishop of the Diocese of
Venice in Florida