Pope Francis Blesses “Voice of the Unborn” Bell to Promote Life
During a recent Wednesday General Audience, Pope Francis blessed the “Voice of the Unborn” bell, symbolizing the importance of protecting human life from conception to natural death. This bell will now be taken to Kazakhstan as part of a global initiative to promote the sanctity of life.
Written by Fr. Paweł Rytel-Andrianik & Fr. Jakub Nagi
Speaking to Polish pilgrims, Pope Francis emphasized the need for selfless love towards the vulnerable, including unborn children. He commended the initiative to bring the bell to Kazakhstan, where it will serve as a reminder of the value of all human lives.
Ahead of the General Audience, Pope Francis personally blessed the bell and rang it alongside two Polish children, highlighting the joy of the occasion. The “Voice of the Unborn” initiative was spearheaded by the Yes to Life Foundation based in Poland, aiming to awaken consciences worldwide.
Awakening Consciences
Archbishop Thomas Peta of Astana, Kazakhstan, described the consecration of the bell as a meaningful and personal event. He noted the Pope’s enthusiasm during the ceremony, emphasizing the global importance of defending life in all its stages.
The Yes to Life Foundation aims to install similar bells in every country, promoting awareness of the sanctity of life. Pope Francis acknowledged the Foundation during the Vatican ceremony, expressing hope that the bells would inspire lawmakers and individuals to protect life.
Global Effort to Protect the Unborn
The first “Voice of the Unborn” bell was crafted in Poland, adorned with the commandment “Thou shalt not kill” and a quote from Blessed Father Jerzy Popiełuszko. Pope Francis set the bell in motion for the first time in 2020, signaling the start of a global initiative.
Since then, more bells have been created for countries like Ukraine, Ecuador, Zambia, and now Kazakhstan, spreading the message of life and hope. Through these bells, the call to protect the unborn resonates worldwide, fostering a culture of life and love.