Florida bishops urge Catholics to work to end the death penalty

Florida bishops are calling on Catholics to work toward ending the death penalty, stating that capital punishment is incompatible with the Church's understanding of the value of human life. The eight bishops, including Miami Archbishop Thomas Wenski and Palm Beach Bishop Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez, issued a letter urging residents to reconsider the practice based on Church teaching and moral authority.

The bishops noted that the death penalty should not be used in situations where bloodless methods can sufficiently punish offenders and protect public safety. While acknowledging that some parts of Scripture mention the death penalty, the prelates argued that the full development of God's revelation points away from the practice. They also highlighted Jesus' teaching that God offers mercy to sinners.

This message follows a period of high execution rates in the state. Florida executed 19 prisoners in 2025 and has executed 10 inmates so far in 2026. The bishops' call for action comes as the state prepares for a double execution scheduled for July 28.