# Prayer for the Unborn Child
*2015-09-01*

> Bill Young reflects on Pope Francis' call for forgiveness for women who have had abortions and leads a prayer for the protection of unborn life.

## Pope Francis’ Call for Mercy

Pope Francis recently told priests that they should extend forgiveness to women who have had abortions. This pastoral approach is especially challenging for many Catholics who carry deep sorrow over past abortions, whether they themselves had them or know someone who did. Bill recalls a friend from the 1970s who had three abortions before converting to Catholicism and still feels guilt today.

## The Legal and Moral Context

Bill notes that modern science—DNA testing and ultrasound—clearly shows that an unborn child is a human life. In many jurisdictions, killing a pregnant woman also results in a charge of two murders, reflecting the legal recognition of the unborn as a person. He also references the 14th Amendment’s guarantee of equal protection, arguing that every human life has inherent value.

## A Call to Catholic Politicians

Bill urges Pope Francis, when he meets with U.S. leaders, to address Catholic politicians who publicly support a pro‑choice stance. He mentions the vice president, former House leaders, and members of the Kennedy family, all of whom identify as Catholic yet endorse a woman’s right to choose. Bill emphasizes that the right to choose does not extend to ending another human life.

## The Gospel Example

Bill recalls the story of the Samaritan woman at the well, noting that Jesus forgave her sin but also called her to a new way of life. He draws a parallel to abortion, stating that while forgiveness is essential, the Church must also proclaim that the sin must cease.

## Prayer for the Unborn

Almighty God, our Father, who gives us life, grant us the grace to recognize that every human life is sacred because it is created in Your image. Enlighten our minds and strengthen our hearts to defend the unborn against indifference and violence. Help us to proclaim that no one has authority to destroy an unborn child. May we affirm that each child is a unique gift of God, worthy of love and protection, and may we uphold the sanctity of marriage and the family as the foundation of society. Give us courage to demand justice, protect the common good, and stand for the dignity of every human person. We ask this through Christ our Redeemer.

*Forgiveness and protection go hand in hand: we must pray for mercy for those who have sinned and work tirelessly to safeguard every unborn life.*