Bishops denounce death penalty as Texas executes 600th person
Tonight, the State of Texas executed Edward Busby, the 600th person killed by lethal injection. The bishops of Texas again denounce the death penalty for its detrimental effects on the victims of violence and all society. Their statement follows:
In 2016, we wrote that ‘Capital punishment vitiates our hearts’ capacity for mercy and love.’ Instead of decreasing violence, capital punishment perpetuates the notion that some lives are disposable and not capable of redemption. Its use can harden our hearts. Indeed, Pope Leo XIV recently reminded us that the Church affirms ‘that the dignity of the person is not lost even after very serious crimes are committed.’
We know that justice can be met without capital punishment, and often capital punishment stands in the way of merciful justice.
‘Effective systems of detention can be and have been developed that protect citizens while at the same time do not completely deprive those who are guilty of the possibility of redemption,’ Pope Leo stated.
As a Church we accompany our brothers and sisters, children, parents and loved ones as we see them suffer from the heinous and violent actions of others. Only God can console them, yet we offer what comfort we can with our presence and prayer. The healing that comes from forgiveness has been a powerful force in the lives of many families who have experienced violence.
Through our varied ministries, we offer counseling, personal support, and the grace of the sacraments to assist in the healing process for both victims and offenders. Our ministry of healing and forgiveness is rooted in Jesus’ command to “be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36).
We continue to call for a cessation of the use of capital punishment and renewed efforts for restorative justice in our communities.