The church teaches that "every life has value and dignity. That is a given," said Andy Rivas, executive director of the Texas Catholic Conference during a Feb. 24 program at the Catholic Social Ministry Gathering in Washington. Rivas helped devise a program of events in Texas in November that sought

The bishop cited a principle often credited to St. Augustine: "In essential things unity, in doubtful things liberty, but in all things love.

"There will be nothing expected of you but your presence and your willingness to pray with me," said Pittsburgh Bishop David A. Zubik.

The arrest of a Chinese 74-year-old bishop was "unfortunately not an isolated case," the Vatican said.

The Catholic conference said the proposal unfairly targets the church and other private institutions.

"The budget choices of Congress have clear moral and human dimensions," the bishops said.