[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.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 20977-CS-71-D
1996 United Methodist General Conference