09/03/2026
Virginia’s Catholic bishops are making their position clear from the pulpit: Vote “no” on constitutional amendments protecting reproductive health care and marriage equality.
A letter signed by Bishops Michael Burbidge and Barry Knestout was distributed to hundreds of Catholic churches across Virginia. At Roanoke’s Basilica of Saint Andrew, its reading was followed by applause.
The letter argues that Ballot Question 1 could allow minors to receive abortions without parental consent and weaken protections for infants born after attempted abortions. State Sen. Jennifer Boysko, the amendment’s Senate patron, called those claims a “scare tactic,” noting that parental consent and infant-care requirements already exist under Virginia law. The Virginia Catholic Conference stands by its interpretation of the proposed amendment.
The bishops also oppose Ballot Question 2, which would remove Virginia’s constitutional ban on same-sex marriage and guarantee equal treatment for lawful marriages between two adults. That ban has been unenforceable since the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2015 marriage equality ruling but could take effect again if the decision were overturned.
On Ballot Question 3, which would automatically restore voting rights after incarceration, the bishops expressed support while telling Catholics to vote their conscience.
Faith, abortion rights, same-sex marriage and voting rights are now colliding on Virginia’s 2026 ballot. What influence should religious leaders have on how parishioners vote? Join the conversation below.
Read Elizabeth Beyer’s full report here: https://tinyurl.com/3nu2b93x
