[Delete paragraphs 4 and 5 and replace with the following text.] The beginning of life and the ending of life are the God-given boundaries of human existence. While individuals have always had some degree of control over when they would die, they now have the awesome power to determine when and even whether new individuals will be born. Our belief in the sanctity of unborn human life makes us extremely reluctant to approve abortion. We recognize God's infinite wisdom in all matters of conception of life and development of that life. Certain conditions may occur that the life of the child or serious health problems of the mother could be a major concern. In those instances, we believe that after much consultation with the pastor, family, father of the child, and guidance of God, in accordance with Jesus' teachings to act with love in all matters, an abortion may be warranted. In the decision process of these matters, those parties involved must realize that all of them shall be accountable not to humankind, but to God.
5. [Second sentence] We support first and foremost abstinence, then the free flow of information...and increased participation in family planning services that do not support abortion only by public and private agencies,...
7. [Delete.]
98. Assist the states to make provisions in law and
practice for treating as adults minors who have, or think they
have, venereal a sexually transmitted
diseases, or female minors who are, or think they are,
pregnant, thereby eliminating the legal necessity for
notifying parents or guardians prior to care and treatment. Parental support is
crucially important and most desirable on such occasions, but needed
treatment ought not be contingent on such support.
1110. View parenthood in the widest possible
framework, recognizing Recognize that many children of the
world today desperately need functioning parental figures and also
understanding that adults can realize...
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 22506-CS-R125-U
1996 United Methodist General Conference