In recognition of 35th Anniversary of Roe v. Wade,
Catholic Bishops of Florida Issue Statement

Tallahassee – In their annual statement recognizing this historic case that legalized abortion, the Catholic Bishops of Florida reiterate their teaching on the sanctity of life, beginning from the moment of conception. The bishops urge, “We must continue to proclaim to society that the 1973 Roe v. Wade Supreme Court ruling was wrong because it did not recognize the child in the womb as a human being but only as a “potentiality of human life”. “

Commenting on the continuing rise in the number of abortions in the state, the bishops state “The failure of the legislature to strengthen the parental notification law is particularly disturbing in the face of judicial criticism lamenting the lack of standards in the law. The testimony of parents was all in vain, as they described their families shattered by teens who later regretted their hasty decision.”

There is hope expressed by the bishops with the upholding of the federal ban on partial birth abortion by the United States Supreme Court and medical advances.  “While abortion continues to be the law of the land, we are heartened by medical and scientific advances that have opened the window to the womb such as ultrasound, allowing the mother to see her child made in the image and likeness of God.” 

Forgiveness and healing for those who have participated in an abortion is offered by the Church through a statewide help line.  Project Rachel, a program that offers confidential counseling for men and women who are suffering emotionally and spiritually due to their involvement with abortion, can be accessed by calling 1-877-908-1212.