Did you know that October is annually observed as Respect Life Month in the Catholic Church in the United States? It is true! October is set aside as a time to reflect on the value of all human life and promote a culture that protects life from conception to natural death. Respect Life Month addresses all threats to human dignity such as abortion, euthanasia, capital punishment, and assisted suicide.
This month reminds us of our sacred duty to uphold the sanctity and dignity of every human life for each person is a unique creation of God, made in His image and worthy of protection, love, and respect. Through prayer, education, and action we can use the month of October to recommit ourselves to be voices for the voiceless, defenders of the defenseless, and messengers of the Gospel of Life.
Here are some ideas to do during Respect Life Month…and beyond!
Prayer: Pray and sacrifice, and pray the Rosary, participate in respect life retreat, go to Mass, spend time before the Blessed Sacrament, join in a prayer vigil.
Education: Use resources from the USCCB or visit the websites of pro-life organizations, read Evangelium Vitae (the Gospel of Life), watch a pro-life movie or documentary, follow the actions of your local, state, and national lawmakers.
Action: Donate your time, talent, and treasure to support pro-life ministries, visit the elderly, write to people on death row, support a family in need, advocate for pro-life legislation and laws that protect vulnerable people.
“As a gift from God, every human life is sacred from conception to natural death. The life and dignity of every person must be respected and protected at every stage and in every condition. The right to life is the first and most fundamental principle of human rights that leads Catholics to actively work for a world of greater respect for human life and greater commitment to justice and peace.”
– Pastoral Plan for Pro-Life Activities (USCCB)
