California Bishops' Statements

California Bishops Commit to Working for Better Futures for California’s Women, Children, and Families — The approaching 49th anniversary of Roe v. Wade comes at a historic moment. The nation stands on the precipice of potentially overturning Roe v. Wade. At the same time, the Governor and state legislators have issued calls to make California a “sanctuary” destination for women seeking abortions from in and out of state. At this pivotal moment, the Bishops of the Dioceses of California are committed to a vision for our state that honors women with life-affirming support and practical resources so that all families can thrive, and so that no woman feels trapped into the devastating decision to end a life by abortion.

God Calls Us All to Care for Our Common Home - Our state’s great beauty and bounty has stirred the spirits of generations to act on behalf of environmental protection and for the justice that ensures the integrity of the land and its people. For these reasons, the Bishops of California find it both fitting and necessary to reflect on Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ and its message of care for God’s creation.

Recommended Resources for God Calls Us All to Care for Our Common Home

Hope and Healing - As pastors and bishops, we understand that mental health is a critical component of wellbeing.  Therefore, ministering to those who suffer from mental illness is an essential part of the pastoral care of the Church.  This letter represents a statement by Catholic pastors, in consultation with those who suffer from mental illness, their families and loved ones, health care practitioners, and other caregivers.  We acknowledge and thank our collaborators—patients, families, mental health professionals, and pastoral care workers—who assisted with this statement.

PDF – English, Spanish or Vietnamese

Study Guide – English

Our Catholic Schools in California: A Stellar Past, A Robust Future - Our California Catholic schools have a stellar past, and they have been a substantial resource, not only for the Church, but for society as a whole. As we commit ourselves to support and promote our statewide network of Catholic schools, let all of us – clergy, laity, state and civic leaders – remember the blessing and gift that Catholic schools have been for generations of students, many of whom were newly arrived immigrants with dreams and hopes for a better future. They were educated by modern saints, primarily women religious, whose tireless effort and dedication ensured that their students grew strong in faith and intellect, and led lives of leadership and service to the common good.

Read the statement:   English   |   Spanish

In Search of the Common Good: A Moral Framework for Addressing California's Budget Crisis by the California Catholic Conference