The month of October is designated by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops at Respect Life Month. Throughout the Diocese of Venice there are a number of opportunities to stand up for life from conception to natural death.
The theme for the 2026 Respect Life month is, “Mary, Mother of Life,” chosen because “Our Blessed Mother is our model for upholding the sanctity of all human life in every stage and circumstance. We entrust all our efforts to protect mothers and babies to her motherly care, which we greatly need at this time,” said Bishop Daniel E. Thomas, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities, in a statement inviting the faithful into prayer, deeper reflection, and action during the month of October.
Throughout the month is the ongoing 40 Days for Life prayer vigil to end abortion. The campaign, which began Sept. 23, 2026, and continues through Nov. 1, brings together people of faith from all walks of life who share a commitment to protecting human life through peaceful prayer and public witness. Fall 40 Days for Life prayer vigil hours through Nov. 1, include: Fort Myers: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday, at 6418 Commerce Park Drive; Sarasota: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., 7-days-a-week, at 736 Central Ave.; Naples: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday, at 1425 Creech Road.
On Oct. 3, many stood witness during the annual Prayer Chain for Life. Life Chain is a peaceful and prayerful public witness of pro-life individuals simply standing for one hour praying for our nation and for an end to abortion everywhere. The Life Chain took place along U.S. 41 in both North Port and Naples.
For those struggling because of a past abortion? You are not alone. Healing retreats and compassionate support are available for anyone who has experienced an abortion. The next confidential one-day Project Rachel retreat for women will take place in October with additional retreats to be announced. If you know someone struggling because of an abortion in their past, please encourage them to make that call which can give them a chance at peace and relief. Call or text in English or Espanol 941-412-5860, for more information about the retreat.
In addition to stand up for the life of the unborn, the Catholic Church is against the death penalty. Sadly, the State of Florida has accounted for half (16 or 29) of all executions in the U.S. in 2026. Please join a death penalty prayer vigil, at 5:15 p.m., Oct. 13, San Pedro Parish Chapel, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port. Gather to pray for the end of the death penalty in Florida, and to pray for everyone involved in the execution process; the doctor administering the execution, all of the witnesses, a conversion of the condemned, the victims and their families. The Oct. 13 vigil will coincide with the scheduled execution of James Robertson, who is set to become the 17th person executed in Florida this year. William Lee Thompson is also set to be executed that day. The vigil lasts less than an hour and includes hymns, a Gospel reading, reflections, intercessions, and a praying of the Rosary. A pause will take place at 6 p.m., the time Florida executions take place. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.
To learn more about how you can join ongoing Respect Life activities within the Diocese of Venice, please visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/respectlife.
