New Jersey Catholic Conference issues guidelines for pro-life advocates under new abortion law

The New Jersey Catholic Conference has issued guidance explaining how pro-life advocates can continue praying and counseling outside abortion facilities without violating a recently enacted state law that some advocates warn could be used to criminalize such actions.

The conference, which represents the bishops of the state in matters of public policy, published the guidance after Democratic Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed into law S2260/A2218 Aug. 20. The law makes it a crime to purposely or knowingly injure, threaten, intimidate, or physically block someone from obtaining or providing what the state calls “reproductive health care.” Pro-life advocates have warned that the law could be used against those praying or counseling women outside abortion facilities, Zeale News previously reported. 

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The guidelines state that pro-life advocates remain free to stand and pray on public sidewalks, hold signs, sing, read Scripture, conduct peaceful stationary vigils, and offer a pamphlet or speak once to someone approaching a facility.

“Our call to be a peaceful, prayerful presence for mothers and their children has not changed,” the conference said in the guidelines. “This new law does not stop you from praying, witnessing, or offering help outside a facility — it simply draws a clear line around a small set of specific actions. You are encouraged to be aware of that line, stay confidently on the right side of it, and continue this important ministry without fear.”

The conference advised advocates not to block driveways, entrances, or exits; follow or continue speaking to someone after the person declines; touch or grab anyone; threaten or use force; physically prevent someone from moving; make access to a facility difficult; or damage property. 

A base violation constitutes a fourth-degree crime punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. The law also allows victims to file private lawsuits and authorizes state and local prosecutors to seek civil penalties and other remedies.

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In a Sept. 1 Beacon column, Bishop Kevin Sweeney of the Diocese of Paterson, New Jersey, highlighted the conference’s guidelines, emphasizing that he believes it “is (still) a ‘good time’ to offer a peaceful, prayerful, and public witness on behalf of human life.” 

The bishop pointed to the monthly Respect for Life Mass and Rosary Procession he leads outside a Morristown abortion facility as an example of peaceful pro-life advocacy. According to the Beacon, the event is held on the first Saturday of each month and begins with Mass at St. Margaret of Scotland Church in Morristown at 8 a.m. 

“[W]e hope that our public witness will communicate to all who pass by that we believe that every human life is a precious gift from God, that life begins at conception and that, without judgement, [and that] we are prepared to assist and support any Mom (and Dad) who may be struggling to say ‘yes’ to the gift of life that they have received,” he wrote.

“United in the power of the Holy Spirit, we remain constant in prayer,” Bishop Sweeney concluded. “We pray that the gift of the Lord’s grace will speak to every human heart so that all people may rejoice in the fullness of life he promises.”