Interim special
The pro-life office of the Catholic archdiocese of Philadelphia has added its voice to the battle against the gruesome partial-birth abortion procedure in the U.S.
In a publication sent to parishioners, Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua of Philadelphia said it is important for Catholics and pro-lifers to educate themselves against “the barbaric procedure known as partial-birth abortion.”
He listed a number of facts, including its widespread use I the U.S., its being committed on healthy babies of healthy mothers, and its use during the fifth and sixth month of pregnancy.
The cardinal urged daily prayer as one means of ending partial-birth abortion. He also suggested parishioners arm themselves with the facts and contact legislators in support of a ban on the procedure.
Partial-birth abortion gained notoriety in the U.S. in 1995-96 due largely to President Bill Clinton’s executive veto of a bill prohibiting the procedure. Despite arguing that the veto was undertaken to protect women’s health, Clinton’s action revealed his pandering to the most extreme pro-abortion elements in the U.S.
Following Clinton’s re-election in November, some legislators attempted to bypass the veto and re-introduce a bill banning partial-birth abortion. The standoff resulted in a compromise which would see the procedure prohibited in the third trimester of pregnancy, except to save the life or health of the mother.
In his letter to parishioners, Cardinal Bevilacque dismissed the significance of the compromise. “The vast majority of partial-birth abortions are in the second trimester,” he said. “And even with regard to third trimester abortions, the ‘health’ exception effectively includes all abortions.”
Prayer for guidance
Guide us, Lord, in our efforts to achieve protection of human life. Sometimes the task seems impossible, but nothing is impossible to You.
Always it is difficult, but give us courage, wisdom and fortitude to overcome all difficulties. Forgive us when we grow tired and discouraged. Show us the best means to use. Lead us to political leaders who will work for our cause. Unify us. Let Your Divine Providence aid us. Soon, Lord, let all Your children within our land and throughout the world be protected by law.
