Michigan voters passed Proposal 3 (formerly known as “Reproductive Freedom for All”), an extreme pro-abortion amendment, on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022. This constitutional amendment now allows for “a new individual right to reproductive freedom, including right to make all decisions about pregnancy and abortion; allow state to regulate abortion in some cases; and forbid prosecution of individuals exercising this established right.”
The Diocese of Grand Rapids’ Office of Communications issues the following statement from Most Reverend David J. Walkowiak, bishop of Grand Rapids, following the approval of Proposal 3 by voters in Michigan:
The passage of Proposal 3 in no way diminishes our commitment to pray for and support human life at all stages of existence. It is disheartening to see that society continues to promote abortion as the only option for women experiencing unintended or unplanned pregnancies. I call on our elected representatives to enact legislation that prioritizes the well-being and stability of families in our society. The United States Bishops have made recommendations at the federal level to make this type of society possible.
The Catholic Church remains committed to helping women and couples who are facing unexpected or difficult pregnancies because we firmly believe God has a plan and purpose for every human life. We will continue to accompany and care for women in need of emotional, spiritual, or material support and their child(ren), born and unborn.
For every woman who has had an abortion, know that God loves you. Help and healing are available to you through our Project Rachel ministry.
We are grateful to all those around our state who worked tirelessly in opposition to Proposal 3 praying fervently, sharing resources and having important conversations with friends, family and neighbors to help change hearts and minds.
Call to Prayer & Penance
In his statement following the Nov. 8 election, Archbishop Vigneron wrote, “Abortion is now legal in Michigan at an unprecedented level, and millions of lives are at stake. We must pray and ask God for his mercy upon us for allowing this evil to happen in our state.”
For this reason, he is inviting all the faithful to join him in the first two weeks of Advent, from November 27 to December 9, in doing penance, giving alms, praying, and fasting.
“We must use these spiritual practices to make reparations for the great sin of abortion in our midst,” he said.
Also read statements from:
Archbishop Vigneron (Archdiocese of Detroit) | Bishop Boyea (Diocese of Lansing) |Bishop Bradley (Diocese of Kalamazoo) |Bishop Doerfler (Diocese of Marquette) | Bishop Gruss (Diocese of Saginaw) | Bishop Walsh (Diocese of Gaylord) | Michigan Catholic Conference
Local resources:
Healing after abortion: Project Rachel
Catholic Charities West Michigan: Pregnancy Support Services | Resources and support for moms and families
Pregnancy Support: HELP Pregnancy Aid | Pregnancy Resource Center – Grand Rapids | Alpha Grand Rapids
Baby and Toddler Pantries: Catholic Charities West Michigan | The Baby Pantry of Lowell | Grandmother’s Cupboard Baby Pantry (Lake County)
St. Mary Parish, Spring Lake: Medical/dental-Pregnancy Support-Food and Clothing-Housing
Infertility Support & Education: Franciscan Life Process Center
Additional Resources:
Constitutional amendment language (full text of the amendment added to the Michigan Constitution) | Vietnamese
Proposal 3 resources
