Catholics in Virginia have been directed to vote no on two ballot initiatives that would amend the state’s constitution, with the state’s bishops instructing priests to educate their parishes about why a “no” vote is necessary.

Priests of the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia, were instructed to read a letter from Bishop Michael Burbidge in full during Masses on the weekend of September 12 and 13, instructing Catholics to vote “no” on two upcoming ballot questions concerning abortion and marriage.