October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a time to celebrate life and reaffirm the Catholic call to inclusion and dignity.
October marks both Down Syndrome Awareness Month and Respect Life Month in the Catholic Church, offering a powerful opportunity to reflect on the value of every human life. Down syndrome, a genetic condition affecting approximately 400,000 Americans, is often misunderstood. Despite medical advancements and increasing life expectancies, the population of individuals with Down syndrome is declining due to abortion following prenatal diagnosis.
In the United States, studies have shown that 67% of mothers who receive a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome choose abortion. In Scotland, the rate has surged by 82% since 2021, with 60 such abortions recorded in 2024 alone. These statistics reflect a troubling trend: the lives of people with Down syndrome are often undervalued before they even begin.
Catholic teaching affirms the inherent dignity of every human person, from conception to natural death. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that “human life must be respected and protected absolutely from the moment of conception.” This includes those with disabilities, who are seen not as burdens but as reflections of God’s image. Pope Francis has repeatedly emphasized the need to welcome and cherish those with Down syndrome, calling for a culture that embraces “dreams, not fears.”
Creating a culture of belonging within the Catholic Church involves more than theological affirmation—it requires action. Parishes can foster inclusion by:
- Offering sensory-friendly Masses and accessible catechesis
- Encouraging participation in liturgical ministries
- Supporting families through community outreach and education
- Celebrating the gifts of individuals with Down syndrome in parish life
Catholics are called to be witnesses of love, joy, and radical hospitality by ensuring that every person, regardless of ability, finds a home in the Church.