Tallahassee, Fla., Sep 28, 2013 / 05:13 am
As the scheduled execution date approaches for a Florida man convicted of murder, local Catholics are offering prayers and renewing their call for an end to the practice of the death penalty.
"Even those who have committed terrible deeds and caused great pain possess a human dignity that is inherent in all persons," said the Florida Catholic Conference in a Sept. 25 statement. "This dignity, instilled by our Creator, is neither earned nor can it be forfeited."
The conference urged Florida Governor Rick Scott to spare the life of Marshall Gore, who is scheduled to be executed on Oct. 1 for the murder of Susan Roark and Robyn Novick.
While voicing "profound sadness" over the murders and praying that the victims' "families are able to realize true peace and healing," the Florida Catholic Conference warned that "Mr. Gore's execution serves only to further distort society's understanding of the sacredness of all human life."
"With this deliberate taking of a life, the State demonstrates that killing is an acceptable manner in which to address harmful and hurtful acts. We believe it is not."