At different moments the disciples of Jesus were not always sure of where their journey would lead them. As Jesus approached his own sorrowful passion and death, the disciples were seized with fear and dread. To all the questions and worries, the Lord responded, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (Jn. 14.6) The response of Jesus was personal and faithful. He offered himself to the disciples as a faithful shepherd and companion who would not abandon his friends. He sacrificed himself for them. With the recent Supreme Court decision, overturning the flawed 1973 abortion decision of Roe v. Wade, many people are worried about the uncertain future ahead of us. No number of years of standing precedence could erase the contrived legal machinations justifying the deliberate destruction of innocent life, but many still ponder, “Where do we go from here?” The political leadership in California is clinging stubbornly to the throw-away ideology of abortion refusing to imagine better alternatives for women and their children. In the face of the pervasive hostile denial and distress, look to Jesus and follow his example. Our response to this historic moment must be personal and faithful. Since the 1973 decision, the Catholic community in Northern California has not only taught about the dignity of human life; we have earnestly sought out the ways to accompany women and families through many fears and uncertainties, including unplanned pregnancies. The Sacramento Life Center, the Mother Theresa and Bishop Gallegos Maternity Homes, and many other robust charitable Catholic organizations have offered a hand and given hope. In many cases, support and companionship made the difference for women and their children. The disciples of Jesus in this generation were born for this moment. We were born ready to bring the hope and mercy of Jesus. The Lord speaks to our hearts: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” May our words as well as our works of mercy continue to echo this saving message for others. Now is a critical time for people of faith to become even more involved in assisting women, children and families in California needing help during an unexpected pregnancy and beyond. Our support will make the difference so that all families can flourish. Find out more at WeWereBornReady.com. Join me in praying that we may personally and faithfully accompany others on the path to the way, the truth, and the life that Lord Jesus has given us since the very moment of conception. May the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary grant us the confident grace to bring ourselves and others to the fullness of life.

https://www.scd.org/sites/default/files/2022-06/Roe-v-Wade-Message-ENGLISH.pdf