USCCB asks prayers, fasting for adoption

November 14, 2013

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is asking Catholics to pray, fast, and abstain from meat on Friday, November 15, that “birthparents placing their children with adoptive families receive abundant support.”

In a reflection published along with the weekly request for prayers, the USCCB notes that in some cases, parents expecting children “may discern that choosing what’s best for their children means generously placing him or her with an adoptive mother and father.” That “selfless, courageous decision” deserves support, the statement says.

In recent years some Catholic charitable agencies have chosen to stop offering adoption services rather than comply with new state laws requiring equal treatment for homosexual couples. Other agencies have ended their formal affiliation with the Catholic Church and accepted the new regulations. The Vatican has said that placement of adoptive children with same-sex parents is a form of violation against the children.

In December 2012, the US bishops announced a call to prayer and penance whose “overall focus is to invite Catholics to pray for rebuilding a culture favorable to life and marriage and for increased protections of religious liberty. Campaign components include monthly Eucharistic holy hours in cathedrals and parishes, daily family rosary, special Prayers of the Faithful at all Masses, fasting and abstinence on Fridays, and the second observance of a Fortnight for Freedom.” The campaign will last until the conclusion of the Year of Faith.

The Friday prayer and fasting intentions change weekly; the links below describe how to receive the intentions in advance, typically on the afternoon of the previous day.

 

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Further information:

• Call to Prayer Friday Fast: Intentions and Reflections (USCCB)
• Call to Prayer: Pledge to Fast (USCCB)