The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has released the second edition of its pastoral response, "Create in Me a Pure Heart," addressing the impact of pornography on American families. This update comes as society shows increased acceptance of pornography, prompting renewed efforts from the bishops to support families at risk.

Bishop Robert Barron, chairman of the USCCB Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth, emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue. "The need for us to help those trapped in this addiction is even more urgent today than it was ten years ago when the first edition was published," he stated.

The document aims to renew commitment to chastity within both the Church and broader society. Bishop Barron highlighted that recent polls indicate a significant rise in moral acceptance of pornography, which underscores the necessity to tackle this crisis. He expressed hope that the document would provide healing for victims and encourage those in positions of responsibility to protect vulnerable individuals.

This tenth anniversary edition includes a new preface by the USCCB Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life, and Youth. Published by Ascension Press, it is also available for download on the USCCB website at usccb.org/pureheart.

The preface offers recommendations for parents and educators on safeguarding against harmful technology. While smart devices have brought some benefits, they have also negatively impacted mental health and increased exposure risks to pornography, particularly among minors.