As Catholics, we are called to live with justice and mercy and uphold the value of all life. Our Catechism states that the death penalty is "inadmissible because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person" (2267).
The death penalty violates both the Church’s pro-life teaching and the teaching on the inherent dignity of the human person as created in the image and likeness of God. Not only does the death penalty target innocent life, but also those with mental illness, intellectual disability and people of color. It also redirects funds that could be used to help victims families harmed by violence heal.
There's no better time than Respect Life Month (October) to lift up the Catholic Church's anti-death penalty teachings. Get started with these resources from CMN!
October 10 is “World Day Against the Death Penalty,” a day where people across the globe will gather to oppose capital punishment.
Join renowned anti-death penalty advocate and author, Sr.
Join CMN in kicking off Respect Life Month with nine days of prayer for the abolition of capital punishment.
The Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops ask the Texas state leaders to spare the life of Melissa Lucio.
Retired Phoenix Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted speaks against the death penalty and reminds people that we must pray for the healing of all those affected by the crimes, while also upholding human life and dignity.
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