On November 7th, Ohio voters will vote on a proposed amendment to the Ohio Constitution that would enshrine and expand abortion.
As Bishop David Bonnar says in his video reflection (below), “Abortion has been a polarizing issue in our country for over fifty years. Our Catholic tradition has consistently opposed abortion and we have mourned the many lives that have been lost. At the same time, it is important that we accompany by listening to one another. We must especially listen to women and families as they share their experiences and needs.”
The proposed amendment does not put women first, and would actually put women at risk. United with the bishops, dioceses and faithful throughout Ohio, Bishop Bonnar and the Diocese of Youngstown urge you to carefully study this extreme amendment and to vote “No.”
This extreme amendment would:
1. Threaten the health and safety of women
2. Threaten the rights of parents and put minors at risk
3. Allow painful abortions through all nine months of pregnancy
Where Does It Say That? – Click here to learn more: English | Spanish
Uses the actual text of the proposed amendment to show why it is so extreme.
I am a faith leader, not a political one, and the main way we as the Church respond to the great needs of our times is in the way we live our mission. As Bishop of Youngstown, I am grateful to our Catholic Charities and parishes throughout our six counties for the concrete ways they accompany women, children, families, and those in need every day.
While I would never, as Bishop, endorse a political candidate, there are times when the Church will weigh in on public matters informed by the Gospel.
I am urging you to vote “No” on the proposed amendment in November that would enshrine and expand abortion in our state’s constitution.
BISHOP DAVID J. BONNAR
Learn | Pray | Vote
Resources from the Catholic Conference of Ohio and Ohio Catholic Dioceses:
The Catholic Conference of Ohio is the official voice of the Catholic Bishops and Church in Ohio on public policy, advocating for the dignity of life at all stages, immigrants, Ohioans in need and Catholic education.
“Where Does It Say That?” Flyer English | Spanish
Uses the actual text of the proposed amendment to show why it is so extreme.
“Frequently Asked Questions” Flyer English | Spanish
Learn More: https://www.ohiocathconf.org/protect-ohio
Pray54Ohio.org | Bulletin Graphic (Color) | Black and White
54-Day Rosary Novena in Ohio begins September 15. Learn more and sign up for email updates now.
Register to Vote or Update Voter Information by October 10, 2023:
Ohio Online Voter Registration
Ohio Voter Eligibility Requirements
Spread the Word and Get Out the Vote:
Note: Official Catholic resources are provided by the diocese and U.S. and Ohio Conferences of Bishops (USCCB and Catholic Conference of Ohio). The Church does not engage in partisan politics, and does not endorse or oppose individual candidates, political parties, or groups of candidates, but seeks to focus attention on the moral and human dimensions of issues.
Information on Holding a Voter-Registration Drive
Do’s and Don’ts During and Election
More resources coming soon, and see also the Voting and Resources pages at the Ohio Catholic Conference.
Resources for Women and Families Seeking Help
Walking with Moms in Need
Catholic Charities
Access a guide to Catholic Charities locations and services in each of our six counties, and also a comprehensive "Community Guide" with additional services offered by various organizations in each county.
Project Rachel
Photos: Catholic Charities Diocese of Youngstown, and iStock License.