Efforts to collect signatures qualifying the Parents' Right to Know and Child Protection initiative for the November 2006 ballot received support in a March 6 statement issued by Ned Dolejsi, executive director of the bishops' California Catholic Conference.

"The issue is an important one in establishing the right relationships that constitute a good society," said Dolejsi. "The California Catholic Conference (CCC) was pleased to publicly support a similar initiative that was on the November 2005 ballot, and we expect to do so again if this one qualifies."

Proponents have until May 15 to secure an estimated 900,000 signatures needed to qualify the initiative for the ballot. The measure would amend the California Constitution to prohibit abortion for an unemancipated minor until 48 hours after a physician notifies the minor's parent or legal guardian, except in a medical emergency or with a parental waiver.

"As executive director of the CCC, I encourage Catholics and others who wish to support the true health and well-being of children and to guarantee fundamental parental rights to support the signature gathering effort with their time, talent and treasure," said Dolejsi.

Local pro-life leaders echoed Dolejsi's support for the signature-gathering campaign. Msgr. Timothy O'Connell, chairman of the archdiocesan commission for Catholic Life Issues, said the initiative safeguards the family.

"The rights of parents need to be respected. Girls facing a pregnancy at a young age need the support and help of their parents," said Msgr. O'Connell, pastor of Visitation Church in Westchester. If the initiative qualifies for the ballot, he will send educational materials to parishes in the fall prior to the election.

"This is an incredibly important initiative to protect our daughters from the physical, emotional and spiritual ravages of abortion," said Marie Widmann, pro-life Catholic Ministries director for the San Bernardino Diocese. She termed parental notification "a very worthy and winnable battle" requiring "serious financial and professional assistance."

John Costello, pro-life chairman for the Knights of Columbus Van Nuys Council 3148, said the Knights will have a signature-gathering table for the initiative at their third annual March for Life event March 11, 8-10:30 a.m. at St. John Baptist de la Salle Church in Granada Hills. Last year, the Van Nuys Council collected approximately 200 signatures for the 2005 initiative.

"Nationwide and worldwide, the Knights have a high regard for the sanctity of life," said Costello, who attended January's Pro-life March in Washington, D.C. "Our objective is to increase awareness for the sacredness of life as taught by Pope John Paul II."

For more information on the March 11 Walk for Life's signature-gathering campaign, e-mail Costello at johncneb@aol.com.