Restoring respect for human life is an essential task of the Church. Through the implementation of the diocesan Respect for Life program and activities we hope to give witness to God's truth and to embody our Lord's command to love one another as He loves us.
The Office of Human Life and Dignity works to promote the sanctity of human life in all stages and in all condition in four main areas:
Education - to deepen respect for human life and heighten public opposition to abortion and euthanasia and other threats against human life both in the Catholic Community and among the general public.
Outreach - to help promote public awareness of outreach programs such as pregnancy help, chastity education, adoption, post abortion healing, care for the elderly and dying.
Public Policy - using a parish network, coordinate and encourage advocay on national, state and local levels to promote laws that defend and protect all human life.
Prayer - to promote programs of prayer among communities and individuals, so that the culture of death will be replaced with a culture of life.
Bishop James F. Checchio will celebrate the Annual Diocesan Respect Life Mass and present the Pro-Vita Awards on Friday, January 22 at 5 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen.
In solidarity with those at the March for Life in Washington, DC, and all who are praying for life in a special way on that day, Bishop James F. Checchio will pray a rosary for life on Main Street in Woodbridge on Friday, January 29 at 1 p.m.
Urge Legislators to Oppose NJ Reproductive Freedom Act (S3030/A4848)
On October 8, 2020, The Reproductive Freedom Act (RFA) S3030 was introduced in the New Jersey State Senate and was referred to the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee. If passed, the RFA would codify into New Jersey law the findings of Roe v. Wade, meaning that abortion would remain legal in New Jersey even if the case were overturned by the Supreme Court. The RFA would also strip safeguards and regulations on the abortion procedure, making New Jersey a more dangerous place for women and their unborn babies.
Contact your state legislators now to oppose this measure. For more information and to find your state legislator or to view the NJ Bishops’ Statement on this proposed legislation visit: https://njcatholic.org/reproductive-freedom-act