Each year at this time, we are reminded that God’s creation is a sacred tapestry woven with purpose, beauty, and dignity. From the expansive universe to a vulnerable newborn child, every element of creation reflects the divine image and invites us into a relationship of reverence and stewardship. The pro- life movement stands as a profound affirmation of this truth, recognizing that every human life from conception to natural death—regardless of age, ability, or circumstance—is a unique and irreplaceable gift. As such, we are called to protect God’s beauty and purpose in each person, born and unborn.

Moreover, the pro-life ethic calls us to foster a culture of compassion, to support mothers and families, and to advocate for justice and mercy in all areas of life. In doing so, we live out our vocation to love as God loves, freely and sacrificially. Through this lens, the pro-life movement becomes not just a cause, but a reflection of divine love in action.

The Cincinnati and Dayton regions have long upheld a strong pro-life ethic, with both Dayton and Cincinnati Right to Life organizations serving as pillars of leadership for over 50 years. These organizations played a vital role in advancing statewide pro-life efforts through community outreach, sidewalk counseling, education, and legislative advocacy, with the goal of building a culture that values and protects life. This mission continues even in a state where the constitution tragically upholds a woman’s “right” to end her child’s life. Over the next few months, these two groups will concentrate their efforts on urging elected officials to address the abortion crisis in Southwest Ohio, which now accounts for more than 35% of all abortions in the state. In addition, we will be educating the public about the serious risks and devastating complications associated with the abortion pill.

Our community is also blessed with numerous pregnancy resource centers that compassionately serve mothers in crisis, offering vital support and practical resources. These centers embody the heart of the pro-life mission: to walk alongside women with dignity, hope, and love.

Churches and families throughout the region play a crucial role in sustaining these efforts. Through their prayers, volunteer service, and financial contributions, they help ensure that the message of life is not only proclaimed but lived out daily.

In a culture that increasingly celebrates convenience, individual autonomy, and utilitarian values, many of us grow weary. We live in a world where laws and corporate policies often disregard life’s sacredness, judging human worth by whether someone is “wanted” or by their perceived capabilities. Those created in the image of God are reduced to metrics and labels, while phrases like “quality of life” dominate medical decisions. People are seen as burdens—and tragically, many begin to see themselves that way.

Pope St. John Paul II reminds us, “Every individual, precisely by reason of the mystery of the Word of God who was made flesh (cf. Jn 1:14) is entrusted to the maternal care of the Church. Therefore, every threat to human dignity and life must necessarily be felt in the Church’s very heart; it cannot but affect her at the core of her faith in the Redemptive Incarnation of the Son of God, and engage her in her mission of proclaiming the Gospel of life in all the world and to every creature (cf. Mk 16:15)” (Evangelium Vitae, no. 3). His words call us to reclaim a vision of humanity rooted in love, dignity, and divine purpose.

Yet even in this challenging climate, the pro-life movement endures. Every compassionate act, every defense of the vulnerable, and every affirmation of human dignity is a radiant witness to the truth. We are not alone in this mission—God walks with us. His grace empowers us to be light in the darkness. The culture may falter, but the Gospel of Life never does. ✣

Margie Christie is the Director of Advocacy for Dayton Right to Life Society. She is a former Executive Director of Dayton RTL Foundation and past President of the Right to Life Action Coalition of Ohio.