Cardinal: 'Reasons for rejoicing' exist despite legalized abortion

Published: 2007-01-22

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Despite the fact abortion has been legal throughout the United States for 34 years, there are "reasons for rejoicing," primarily because of lower abortion rates and increased public opposition to abortion, said Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia. Cardinal Rigali, chairman of the U.S. bishops' Committee on Pro-Life Activities, was principal celebrant and homilist at a Jan. 21 Mass on the eve of the annual March for Life. It was held at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington. "The rate and number of abortions in the United States continue to decline, most notably among teens," he said to applause during the homily. He said many teens "are wisely choosing to abstain from sexual activity" because of religious and moral values and also to avoid sexually transmitted diseases. "To be free of disease, to be free of the fear of an ill-timed pregnancy, to be free of a broken heart -- this is the freedom that we want for our young people, and we rejoice that it is unfolding," he added to further applause.

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