P R A Y I N G W I T H T H E C H U R C H
|
INTENTION : |
That those dedicated to medical research and all those engaged in legislative activity may always have a deep respect for human life, from its beginning to its natural conclusion.
|
Neither Sacred Scripture nor Christian Tradition contain any explicit treatment of respect for human life from the first moment of conception. However, St Luke testifies to the active, though hidden, presence of the two infants - the conception of Jesus in Mary's virginal womb and of John the Baptist already six month's pregnant in Elizabeth's womb. The familiar "Visitation" story testifies to life with this statement, "When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leapt in her womb" (Lk 1:41) indicating the presence of human life.
"Human life is sacred and inviolable at every moment of existence, including the initial phase which precedes birth" (Evangelium Vitae N.61). The Church has constantly proclaimed the sacred and inviolable character of every human life from its conception until its natural end (ibid, N57).
The Church calls on medical researchers and state legislators to discover and respect every stage of human life as a reflection of the Creator who thus addressed Jeremiah, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you" (Jr 1:5). God's love does not differentiate between the newly conceived infant in the mother's womb nor the young person nor an elderly person. He sees in each phase of growth an impression of His own image and likeness (Gn 1:26).
|
|
