Bishops urge prayer as they continue abortion referendum fights in 4 states

Catholic bishops in Nevada, Virginia, Idaho, and Missouri are asking for prayers as they prepare the faithful for upcoming ballot initiatives regarding abortion policies. On Nov. 3, voters in Nevada, Virginia, and Idaho will decide on referendums to establish a right to abortion. In Missouri, voters will decide on a pro-life referendum intended to repeal the state's constitutional right to abortion.

Archbishop George Leo Thomas of Las Vegas described the efforts to establish abortion rights as a diabolical initiative and noted that bishops face an uphill battle in Nevada. In that state, constitutional amendments require a majority vote in two consecutive elections; a majority in the 2024 statewide election reached 64% of voters.

To prepare congregations, bishops have used flyers, prayer cards, and statements to advocate against abortion. They have also asked priests to teach about the sanctity of life, called for fasting, and organized voter registration and turnout efforts. While American bishops do not endorse political candidates, they have advocated for or against specific ballot initiatives when Church teachings on the sanctity of life are involved.