Most Rev. Austin A. Vetter Bishop | Diocese of Helena

The Catholic Bishops of Montana have issued a letter addressing the recent approval of Constitutional Initiative 128 (CI-128), known as the Abortion Initiative. The bishops expressed their disappointment over what they describe as a significant setback for babies, women, and parents in Montana. They highlighted concerns about the initiative's impact on minors, parental rights, and late-term abortion safeguards.

In their letter, the bishops stated, "Today marks a significant and tragic setback for babies, women, and parents in Montana. We grieve the passage of Constitutional Initiative 128 (CI-128), which negates existing safeguards for minors and limitations on late-term abortion in our state." They also emphasized their belief that many voters may not have fully understood the implications of CI-128.

Despite this outcome, the bishops conveyed hope for future changes by sharing "the truth about each person’s intrinsic dignity" and envisioning a time when such measures are no longer misrepresented as women's healthcare. They reiterated that life should be respected from conception to natural death.

The letter also outlined ongoing support efforts by Catholics in Montana for women in need. It mentioned that regardless of background or beliefs, women can find compassion and guidance through any Catholic church in the state. The bishops encouraged support for Catholic Social Services of Montana (CSSM) to help provide adoption services, resources for mothers and young families, and counseling services.

The letter concluded with an invocation: "May Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Unborn, pray for us."

Signed by Most Rev. Jeffrey M. Fleming, Bishop of Great Falls-Billings; Most Rev. Austin A. Vetter, Bishop of Helena; and Most Rev. Michael W. Warfel, Bishop Emeritus of Great Falls-Billings.