Respect Life Office | Diocese of Worcester, MA RESPECT LIFE SUNDAY THIS YEAR'S THEME: October 3rd is observed as Respect Life Sunday in dioceses throughout the United States. It is the day we launch the theme of the new year's Respect Life Program and prepare to celebrate October as Respect Life Month. This year's theme is "St. Joseph, defender of life, pray for us!", in recognition of the current Year of St. Joseph being observed throughout the worldwide church.