Respect Life Month in Arkansas

Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026 - Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026

Location: All Parishes
City: Nationwide
Contact: Catherine Phillips
Phone: (501) 664-0340, ext. 326

The Catholic Church in the United States celebrates Respect Life Month in October, with the first Sunday of the month designated as Respect Life Sunday. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) assists parishes, schools and other ministries in helping the faithful understand, value and become engaged with building a culture that cherishes every human life through its annual Respect Life Program, which is a year-round, nationwide effort that kicks off on Respect Life Sunday each year.

In addition, Catholics may take part in nationwide events such as Life Chain or 40 Days for Life to help them put their faith into prayer and action. Or, they can visit Walking with Moms in Need to learn how to organize a group in their parishes to help mothers in need. Volunteers work to "ensure that any woman who finds herself unexpectedly pregnant, or parenting in difficult circumstances, can turn to her local Catholic church and be connected with the resources she needs."

This year's respect life poster features the "Virgin of the Lilies," by William-Adolphe Bouguereau. The theme “Mary, Mother of Life,” highlights Mary's unique role as mother of all the living. "The Blessed Mother teaches us to respect each human life in every stage and circumstance. We ask her intercession in helping us to recognize the gift of human life, even when that gift is unexpected or calls us to make sacrifices."

In the Diocese of Little Rock, all are invited to join Bishop Anthony B. Taylor at the Respect Life Sunday Mass Oct. 4. This event also includes a special rosary, Eucharistic adoration and procession and other events beginning at the Cathedral of St. Andrew in Little Rock. To learn more, see event details or contact Catherine Phillips, respect life director for the Diocese of Little Rock, at (501) 664-0340, ext. 326.

Another option is to watch "Life and Human Dignity: A Consistent Ethic of Life," a four-part video series that invites participants to form a consistent ethic of life through respect for human life in all of life's circumstances, from conception to natural death. It was produced by our diocese's Respect Life Office, in cooperation with the Office of Faith Formation. This course is available at learn.dolr.org/courses and could be a great educational opportunity during October, or anytime of the year.