Statement on the Death Penalty

Bishop Glen John Provost issues the following statement. In light of the State of Louisiana's decision to resume executions, we must keep the victims of crime and their families in our prayers, and we remain faithful to the church’s teaching on the death penalty. According to the Catechism, the State is responsible for safeguarding the common good and has the right and duty to impose proportionate punishment for crimes (CCC 2266). However, the use of capital punishment is limited and can be applied only when it is not possible to defend society otherwise. Adding emphasis to this equation, both Pope John Paul II and Pope Francis reminded us of the dignity of all human life and the need for social recognition of the hope of redemption. Today, the penal system allows for adequate punishment and defense of public order without the imposition of capital punishment, which, in these circumstances, cannot be considered proportionate. As we continue to pray for the victims and their families, we also pray that the State will not promote a culture of death. Let us continue to pray for true repentance of all sins against human life and for a society that is more in conformity with the dignity of the human person. The full statement released by the bishops of Louisiana can be found on the diocesan website.