Statement by Archbishop George J. Lucas on the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs Decision

The Supreme Court’s decision in the Dobbs case is a major victory for unborn children, for their mothers and for the cause of justice in our country. Citizens and their elected representatives in each state will now have the opportunity to guarantee the right to life for the child in the womb.

Many in our country will not agree with the reasoning and the decision of the Supreme Court. And some women will still wonder how they can meet the challenge of an unplanned or unwanted pregnancy. This is a moment for each of us to commit to not let any woman face her challenge alone. In the Catholic community, we possess many resources that are well suited to support moms and their children. Mothers and children contribute gifts to our communities that we want to cherish.

For years we have witnessed the help given to women by pregnancy resource centers, homes for pregnant and new moms and various mentoring programs. Catholics sponsor childcare and pre-school programs, St. Vincent de Paul chapters provide food and rent assistance, we operate excellent K-12 schools, along with colleges and universities willing to provide education support. Catholic Charities hosts a domestic violence shelter, supportive counseling, food pantries and other services.

We can quickly respond to mothers and children who need us, and we can come up with the material resources to make something good happen for them, all while respecting their dignity and being enriched by their hopes.

Our parishes will be connecting to a national effort called “Walking with Moms in Need.” We envision that each parish community will be seen as a place of warmth and acceptance where woman can turn in their need. This will require caring parishioners who are acquainted with available services and who are willing to accompany women with respect on their journey to a peaceful and secure life with their children.

As we work to shape just laws in Nebraska to protect the unborn, we must each take up the responsibility to create communities where these children and their parents can flourish.