U.S. Supreme Court reverses Roe. v. Wade

The United States Supreme Court overruled Roe. v. Wade today, saying “The Constitution does not confer a right to abortion; Roe and Casey are overruled; and the authority to regulate abortion is returned to the people and their elected representatives.”

In the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a Mississippi law prohibiting abortion after 15 weeks of pregnancy and in the process reversed the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision which found a federal right to an abortion. This will allow many state legislatures to determine their own policy on the matter.

The Catholic bishops of Iowa prayed for a favorable ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court which would lift up the sacredness and dignity of all human life. The bishops also asked that our parishes and nation “prioritize the well-being of women, children, and families so that no woman ever feels forced to choose between her future and the life of her child.” Their full statement is available here.

The bishops said, “We have a responsibility and opportunity to take action to support the dignity of the human person and the common good.”

Here in Iowa, abortion is still legal. The Iowa Catholic Conference is advocating for the “Protect Life Amendment,” which would allow Iowans pass laws protecting preborn children. A recent Iowa Supreme Court decision has left the state constitutional right to an abortion in doubt.

May we also take this opportunity to pray for healing for every woman and man who has suffered grievously from abortion, to make sure they have our continued compassion and support, and to entrust all souls to God.