Petition Text: 20977-CS-71-D

Understanding Petition Numbers

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Amend ¶ 71H:

[Third sentence] Our belief in the sanctity of unborn human life makes us reluctant to approve abortion. Indeed, we cannot affirm abortion as an acceptable means of birth control, and we unconditionally reject it as a means of gender selection. But wWe are equally bound to respect the life and well-being of the mother, for whom devastating damage may result from an unacceptable pregnancy. In continuity with past Christian teaching, we recognize tragic conflicts, of where the life of the unborn with immediately threatens the life of the mother, that may justify abortion, and in such cases encourage clergy and congregations to pray for and support such mothers and their families. support the legal option of abortion under proper medical procedures. We cannot affirm abortion as an acceptable means of birth control, and we unconditionally reject it as a means of gender selection. We call all Christians to a searching and prayerful inquiry into the sorts of conditions that may warrant abortion. Furthermore, wWe call for the Church to provide nurturing ministries to those persons who have obtained abortions for whatever reasons terminate a pregnancy. Also, wWe encourage call the Church to provide a full range of welcoming, nurturing ministries to those giving who give birth--especially to those in the midst of crisis pregnancies. Finally, we acknowledge that gGovernmental laws and regulations do not provide all the guidance required by the informed Christian conscience teaching. Therefore, a decision concerning abortion should be made only after thoughtful and prayerful consideration by the parties involved, with medical, pastoral, and other appropriate counsel.

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Petition Text: 20977-CS-71-D
1996 United Methodist General Conference