Given the continued tension following the news that the U.S. Supreme Court may overturn the federal law that legalizes abortion, Bishops around the United States are calling for Catholics to unite in fasting and prayer.
On Friday May 13, the Memorial of Our Lady of Fatima, the faithful are asked to pray and fast for these intentions:
- For our nation, for the integrity of our judicial system, and that all branches of government be dedicated to seeking the common good and protecting the dignity and rights of the human person, from conception to natural death.
- For the overturning of Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey in the Supreme Court’s final decision.
- For the conversion of the hearts and minds of those who advocate for abortion.
- For a new commitment to building an America where children are welcomed, cherished, and cared for; where mothers and fathers are encouraged and strengthened; and where marriage and the family are recognized and supported as the true foundations of a healthy and flourishing society.
- For Our Blessed Mother’s intercession and guidance as the Church continues to walk with mothers and families in need, and continues to promote alternatives to abortion, and seeks to create a culture of life.
After the May 2 leak of a draft Supreme Court decision, which may indicate the outcome of the current case under consideration, Dobbs v. Jackson, and the overturning of the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision, some who advocate for abortion have threatened demonstrations and disruption of church services around the country.
“May our prayer and fasting be a peaceful, civil, and faith-filled response to the ever-increasing violent and coarse discourse that has come to a head regarding the impending Supreme Court decision,” said Bishop Alfred Schlert.