Reverence for Life

We hold life sacred from conception to natural death. We oppose abortion, which regrettably is legal, and advocate for common sense restrictions on its use. We support non-embryonic stem cell research but oppose experiments on human embryos and cloning. We support quality end-of-life care and oppose legalizing assisted suicide. We oppose the use of capital punishment.

Religious Freedom

"The First Amendment is a guarantee that government will mind its own limited, secular, non-religious business, so that the people can enjoy their natural right to religious liberty." —Removing the Cross: American and French Perspectives by Auxiliary Bishop Thomas J. Curry, the Santa Barbara Pastoral Region Bishop in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.

Restorative Justice

In April 1999, in response to a report of his prison visits by Los Angeles Auxiliary Bishop Gabino Zavala, the California bishops formed an Ad Hoc Committee on Prison Ministry and Corrections. The ultimate goal of the committee was to improve the Church's role in ministering to prisoners, victims and families. In October 2000, the Ad Hoc Committee was dissolved and replaced by the Steering Committee on Prison Ministry and Corrections, which continues the work of the bishops in the state. 

Family Life

We defend and support the institution of marriage as the basic foundation of society. We advocate for tax, workplace, divorce and welfare policies that enhance family unity. We acknowledge the fundamental rights of parents, and advocate for children's well-being.

Education

We believe that parents are the primary educators of their children. We advocate for their right to be involved in their children's school and its curriculum. We seek improved quality in all state schools just treatment for all private schools. We call for the equitable access to government programs for all qualifying children.