Pope Francis Urges Action to Support Motherhood and Vulnerable Lives

Vatican City: Pope Francis called for action to remove women from pressure to have abortions in a message to a Mass in Saint Peter’s Basilica for the Italian Movement for Life on Saturday. “I encourage you to advance the social protection of motherhood and the acceptance of human life in all its stages,” Francis, who is being treated for bilateral pneumonia in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, said in the message, which was delivered on his behalf by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin.

According to Ansa News Agency, the Pope emphasized the importance of giving a voice to the unborn child, stating, “The unborn child represents, in the fullest sense, every man and woman who does not count, who has no voice.” He highlighted the need for solidarity with those who are marginalized and vulnerable across the world.

The message further stressed the significance of committing to the service of human life, particularly when it is fragile and vulnerable. Pope Francis remarked, “There is still, and now more than ever, a need for people who dedicate themselves to the service of human life, especially when it is most fragile and vulnerable.”

In his message, the Pope also addressed societal values, stating, “A just society is not built by eliminating unwanted unborn children, the elderly who are no longer independent, or the incurably ill.” His call to action was a plea for a more inclusive and compassionate approach to supporting life in all its stages.