Catholics for Choice Releases Prayers, Hopes, and Dreams for the Start of the Conclave
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, May 5, 2025
Contact: Ashley Hildebrand, Senior Advisor
Phone: (202) 294-4081
Email: media@catholicsforchoice.org
Catholics for Choice Releases Prayers, Hopes, and Dreams for the Start of the Conclave
WASHINGTON — Catholics for Choice, which uplifts and amplifies the voices of the majority of Catholics who believe in reproductive freedom, released the following statement from staff ahead of the papal conclave in Rome:
“The next pope will immediately step out onto the global stage and represent a religion at a crossroads: will he continue Pope Francis’ progressive path forward, or reverse course? As a religious leader and a diplomatic one, the next pope will wield influence on issues that don’t just affect Catholics, but all people. The staff and advocates of Catholics for Choice are praying for a pope who will expand on Pope Francis’ legacy of peace, justice, and inclusion.” — Chris Wimbush, Interim President
“Entering the conclave, I am feeling immense gratitude for progress made and hope for progress to come. Pope Francis introduced us to a spirit of encounter, and my prayer is that the conclave selects a pope who will take that spirit and grow it into a culture of emboldening and engagement. We need a pope who has the moral courage to continue our inclusive path forward.” — Stephanie Hanson-Quintana, Vice President of Organizing and Engagement
“There has been talk that the conclave needs to select a ‘unity’ candidate. But my prayer is that the next pope is unafraid to push for bold, creative, inclusive discernment from the grassroots of our church, rather than continue to solely let the clergy set the pace for progress. Pope Francis started to reorient the church towards a compassionate and inclusive approach. It is incumbent upon the next pope to continue this justice-focused work.” — Ashley Hildebrand, Senior Advisor
“I’ve met with advocates who dream of a bold, beautiful church that welcomes women and nonbinary people into every position of leadership, one that respects bodily autonomy, opposes violence, and promotes justice. As many shared, Pope Francis started this work, and we will work to see it through until every Catholic is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.” — Lauren Bailey, Manager of Organizing & Movement Building
“When people say that church teaching on abortion is ‘unchanged and unchangeable,’ they’re often ignoring the richness of Catholic tradition. The church is so much more than what the bishops say: Catholic teaching includes scripture, guidance from theologians, the lives of the saints, and the lived experiences of everyday Catholics. I pray that the next pope will address church teaching on abortion and contraception in the way that Pope Francis never did.” — Kate Hoeting, MTS, Senior Advisor
“We would be remiss if we did not mention the conclave is counter to the spirit of synodality and shared decision-making that Pope Francis advocated for during his 13 years as pope. My hope is that the next pope is committed to the idea of synodality and recognizes the importance of listening to lay Catholics. The acceptance and inclusion of pro-choice Catholics, queer Catholics, and the Catholics who feel differently than the clergy on issues of gender roles and sexual identity depends on it.” — Manuela Tironi, Senior Advisor
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Catholics for Choice shapes and advances sexual and reproductive ethics that are based on justice, reflect a commitment to a person’s well-being and respect, and affirm the capacity of all people to make moral decisions about their lives.
