The first Sunday of October (Oct. 6 this year) is observed as Respect Life Sunday.

As Catholics, we are called to cherish, defend, and protect those who are most vulnerable, from conception to life’s natural end. During October, the Church in the United States celebrates Respect Life Month, a time in which we’re invited to reflect more deeply on the dignity of every human life.

This work has never been more important than now. Life is being threatened in our country from the moment of conception to natural death and at many points in between.

Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to parishioners:

(English | Español)

Pray the Respect Life Novena Oct. 22-30

(English | Español)
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Read the USCCB’s Respect Life Month statement

Opportunities for prayer and action around the diocese and beyond:

  • Get involved with Walking with Moms and Families in Need – Support during and after pregnancy, baby and toddler pantries, healing after abortion, infertility support, counseling services
  • Sign up for Vigil Hours during 40 Days for Life, Sept. 25 – Nov. 3. Check with your parish pro-life coordinator, or click here.
  • Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat: Healing after abortion, Nov. 1-3
    • Confidential retreat for people who have lost a child to abortion
      I will never leave you or forsake you… Hebrew 13:5
      Seeking healing after an abortion? A part of Catholic Charities West Michigan’s Project Rachel, the Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat serves to help anyone struggling with the aftermath of abortion. Over one weekend, a staff of trained volunteers works with you and your unique story, surrounding you with support and encouragement throughout the retreat. This retreat exists to help you experience relief, rest, and healing through a supportive, trauma-sensitive approach. “I can’t say thank you enough,” one retreat member says, “it seems such a small thing to say compared to the feeling inside of my heart. This weekend has opened me up in a way that truly makes me feel worthy of God’s unconditional love. I have had a tremendous burden lifted. I now know I am loved and blessed in Jesus, through each and every one of you. For the first time in 50 years, I got a good night of sleep.” Experience the transformative freedom of forgiveness and healing. There is hope after abortion. For more information email projectrachel@ccwestmi.org or call (616) 340-1824. All inquiries are strictly confidential.
  • Mass for God’s Children, Nov. 4, 7 p.m. at the Cathedral of Saint Andrew.
      • The diocesan Respect Life office invites parents who have experienced the loss of a child before baptism to a Mass for God’s Children. All are welcome to attend this Mass, including parents, grandparents, siblings, relatives and friends. To reserve a memorial rose in your child’s/children’s name(s), or for more information, please contact Paloma Olvera. 
  • Prison and Jail Ministry
  • March for Life in 2024
  • Caring for Migrants and Refugees – Resources and ways to help migrants and refugees in our community and beyond can be found on our website.

Programs and Services for Individuals and Families through Catholic Charities West Michigan:

Pregnancy support services | Resources and support for moms and families | Counseling services | Substance abuse treatment & counseling | Support for Seniors

Respect Life Month Program Resources for Parishes:

Parish Action Guide & Webinar

Additional resources:

Respect Life Ministry resources (in the Diocese of Grand Rapids)

From the USCCB:
Respect Life Program resources | Pro-Life Activities Committee | Browse materials published in previous years

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