Earlier this year, the United States Supreme Court agreed to take up Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. The case addresses the constitutionality of a 15-week abortion ban passed into law in Mississippi, and has the potential to overturn Roe v. Wade. The question before the Supreme Court is whether all pre-viability bans on elective abortions are unconstitutional. Oral arguments are scheduled to be held in Dec. 1 at 10 a.m., and a decision is expected in June 2022.
USCCB statement ahead of the ruling (March 21,2022)
Decline to sign the “Reproductive Freedom for All” pro-abortion petition circulating in Michigan
Understanding the Case
For a more in-depth look at the Dobbs case and what it means for Michigan, read Michigan Catholic Conference’s latest Word From Lansing column (published by Detroit Catholic Dec. 2, 2021)
7 things to know about Dobbs (CNA, Nov. 30, 2021)
USCCB, Catholic groups, politicians back Mississippi in court abortion case (Catholic News Service via CatholicPhilly, Aug. 2021)
Podcast: Bioethics on Air: Episode 79: A Primer on Dobbs (The National Catholic Bioethics Center)
Call for Prayer
On Dec. 1 at 10 a.m., the U.S. Supreme Court is scheduled to begin hearing oral arguments in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. You are invited to pray and fast. Please pray for the Supreme Court Justices, that the Holy Spirit will guide the proceedings and that the Court will find that there is no fundamental right to abortion found in the U.S. Constitution. Also, please pray for the unborn to be recognized as constitutional persons and for peace and healing.
Pray for Dobbs resources
Walking with Moms
We know that it’s important for Catholics to lovingly support and care for pregnant and parenting moms and couples. Regardless of the outcome in Dobbs vs. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the Church is redoubling efforts to accompany women and couples who are facing unexpected or difficult pregnancies, offering them loving and compassionate care. Learn how you can walk with a mom in need. Support is available through many parishes and through the following:
Catholic Charities West Michigan: Pregnancy Support Services | Resources and support for moms and families
Pregnancy Support: HELP Pregnancy Crisis Aid
Healing after abortion: Project Rachel
Read stories of parishes and others walking with moms in the May issue of FAITH Grand Rapids magazine
USCCB’s Walking with Moms
Respect Life Ministry in the diocese
