Statement from Bishop Singh Concerning Roe v. Wade

Dear Saints,

Earlier this week, our nation received news about a likely decision forthcoming from the United States Supreme Court. This impending decision to overturn Roe v. Wade after nearly 50 years will have painful repercussions across our country – for the people forced to carry unplanned and dangerous pregnancies against their will, for those of us whose religious liberties are not as protected as others, for those whose protections of privacy now stands poised for contestation – same-sex marriages, access to birth control, and so much more.

As Episcopalians, we commit every day to respect the dignity of every human being – one’s dignity requires the existence of choice over control, freedom over force, and abundant love over fear.

The Episcopal Church is consistent in our support for access to reproductive healthcare, including abortion access, which is the agency of a woman and her loved ones. I commend to you this resource released yesterday by the Episcopal Public Policy Network, including a resolution passed by the General Convention in 1967.

I am aware that while we may see mixed reactions to this potential decision, many are now afraid for their safety and that of their loved ones. I pray for our church, our world, and the communities we serve. As we give thanks for our mothers, may we wisely achieve God’s dream for a world in which no child is afraid or hungry, no person is enslaved, and where our love for one another flows fearlessly.

Yours in Christ,

The Rt. Rev. Prince G. Singh
Bishop Provisional
The Episcopal Dioceses of Eastern and Western Michigan