It is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the meaning and value of human life at every stage.

The Catholic bishops of England and Wales, Ireland and Scotland have agreed that the theme for Day for Life 2019 will tackle the reality of domestic abuse.

One in four women and about one in six men suffer from domestic abuse in their lifetime.

Two women are killed every week in England by a partner or ex-partner, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Bishop John Sherrington, the bishop responsible for Day for Life in England and Wales, said: “These shocking statistics call us to fight against the scourge of domestic abuse. For those who are experiencing domestic abuse, the home is far from being a place of security and self-fulfilment.

“Too often it is a place of suffering, fear, degradation and isolation. Domestic abuse is often a hidden problem, and our aim is for anyone experiencing domestic abuse to feel able to have confidence to seek help within the Church setting.

“We want to raise awareness in our churches which would be a step towards addressing this serious moral and social problem.”

The Secretariat of State of His Holiness Pope Francis sent the following message of support: “His Holiness Pope Francis sends his cordial best wishes to all those celebrating the 2019 Day for Life being held in England and Wales, Scotland and Ireland.

“As they…