RESPECT LIFE MONTH BEGINS WITH THE FIRST SUNDAY OF OCTOBER

Each October the Church in the United States celebrates Respect Life Month, and the first Sunday of October is observed as Respect Life Sunday. As Catholics, we are called to cherish, defend, and protect those who are most vulnerable, from the beginning of life to its end, and at every point in between.

The Catholic Church has a long history of service to those who are most vulnerable and remains the largest provider of social services in the United States. Through the sacrificial efforts of faithful Catholics, the church serves millions through diocesan ministries and agencies, Catholic hospitals and healthcare systems, immigration clinics, shelters, and refugee resettlement.

The Gospel of Life is at the heart of Jesus’ saving message to the world. Through the Incarnation and birth of Christ, God reveals to us the dignity of all human life. Not only must human life not be taken, but it must be protected with loving concern. Each of us is made in the image and likeness of God, and we reflect his glory in the world.

Society as a whole must respect, defend and promote the dignity of every human person, at every moment and in every condition of that person’s life. Our lives are a gift from God and ultimately belong to Him.