Bishops Rally Faithful Against Abortion Ballot Measures
Four states vote November 3: Nevada, Virginia, and Idaho on enshrining abortion rights; Missouri on repealing its 2024 expansion.
Catholic bishops in Nevada, Virginia, Idaho, and Missouri are calling the faithful to prayer, fasting, and informed voting as abortion-related ballot measures head to the polls on November 3.
In Nevada, Virginia, and Idaho, proposed constitutional amendments would enshrine a right to abortion. Missouri voters will decide whether to repeal an amendment approved in 2024 that expanded abortion rights. The four contests represent a major opportunity either to expand or to restrict legal protections for unborn life.
Archbishop George Leo Thomas of Las Vegas described one initiative as “diabolical” and called for sustained prayer. Bishop Michael Burbidge of Arlington and Bishop Barry Knestout of Richmond have urged Catholics to “vote NO” on Virginia’s reproductive freedom amendment, warning that it eliminates existing safeguards. Bishop Peter Christensen of Boise has directed pro-life messaging at Masses throughout Idaho. Missouri’s four bishops issued a joint statement supporting the pro-life measure on their ballot.
Prayer, Education, and Conscience
Parishes across the four states are distributing flyers, prayer cards, and educational resources. The bishops’ efforts also include fasting and conscience formation so that Catholics approach Election Day in light of the Church’s teaching on the dignity of every human life from conception.
The pastoral campaign treats the referendums as more than political contests. By naming the spiritual stakes—most starkly in the Las Vegas archbishop’s language—and by tying pro-life appeals to the liturgy in Idaho, the bishops seek to ensure the faithful understand what is at issue before they cast their ballots. Where amendments would write abortion into state constitutions, they warn of lasting harm to the unborn and the common good. Where repeal is possible, they present a chance to restore protection.
As November 3 nears, the message from the episcopate is clear: prayer must accompany action, and the defense of life remains a non-negotiable duty for Catholic voters.