Washington (January 18, 2007) - Calling the nation’s spending decisions "not only policy choices but moral ones," the U.S. Conference of Bishops (USCCB) is urging Congress not to neglect the needs of the poor here and abroad as funding is appropriated for the new fiscal year.

"When setting priorities, Congress should seek to advance the common good of all, which cannot be achieved unless the essential needs of the poor and vulnerable are met," Bishop Thomas G. Wenski, chairman of the USCCB international policy committee and Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio, chairman of the USCCB domestic policy committee, wrote in a joint letter to senators.

Specifically, the bishops expressed concern that the Continuing Resolution for FY 2007 may reduce essential funding to combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis in developing countries. Noting that the United States has become "a leader of a major international effort to address these devastating diseases," the bishops urged Congress to approve $4.36 billion - the amount proposed by the Senate Appropriations Committee - for morally appropriate HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis programs in FY 2007. For the complete text of the letter visit the USCCB Web site at www.usccb.org.

Catholics from across the country gathered last month in the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington for the National Prayer Vigil for Life. The opening Mass was held on January 21, the eve of the 34th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion. The Vigil Mass for Life is the largest annual Catholic Mass in the United States. As in the past, approximately 10,000 participants attended the vigil and then joined thousands more the next day to participate in the national March for Life.

Chair of the Bishops' Committee on Pro-Life Activities, His Eminence Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, were the principal celebrant and homilist at the Vigil Mass, concelebrated by five fellow cardinals and many of the nation's bishops and priests.

After Mass there was a National Rosary for Life, Night Prayer celebrated according to the Byzantine Rite, confessions, and holy hours from midnight until 6:00 a.m. led by pro-life seminarians from across the country. For details, visit www.adw.org/service/jan22.asp.

The National Prayer Vigil for Life and Opening Mass are co-sponsored by the Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities of the USCCB Bishops (USCCB), The Catholic University of America, and the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. More information is available at: www.usccb.org/

prolife/anniversary.htm.