Resources for Educators: Abortion
Human life must be respected and protected absolutely from the moment of conception. From the first moment of his existence, a human being must be recognized as having the rights of a person - among which is the inviolable right of every innocent being to life. CCC 2270-2275.
“Therefore, by the authority which Christ conferred upon Peter and his Successors, and in communion with the Bishops of the Catholic Church, I confirm that the direct and voluntary killing of an innocent human being is always gravely immoral." Evangelium Vitae n. 57.
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you.” Jer. 1:5.
Important Church Documents
Evangelium Vitae, Gospel of Life, Pope John Paul II (1995).
Respect for Unborn Human Life: The Church's Constant Teaching, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (2008).
Declaration on Procured Abortion, Sacred Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (1974).
Catholic Websites:
- "Abortion," New Advent Catholic Encyclopedia
- "How to Vote Catholic: Abortion," CatholiCity.com
- "Abortion," Catholic Answers
- "Overview: Evolution of Roman Catholic positions on abortion," ReligiousTolerance.org
- "Catholic Teaching: Abortion," Archdiocese of Chicago
Ecclesial Documents (Bishop/Vatican/USCCB):
Articles:
"Abortion: What the Church Teaches,” Helen Alvare, available here.
Resources to describe historical and current cases and legislation from Americans United for Life à Defending Life 2009, available here.
Dates to Note:
On January 22, 1973, the US Supreme Court issued its decision in Roe v. Wade, addressing the issue of abortion, one of the most controversial and politically significant cases in U.S. Supreme Court history.
April: National Post Abortion Healing Awareness Month
November: National Adoption Month
December 12: Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Unborn