Religious views of abortion

Question 1

What do Catholics believe about abortion?

Answer 1

Life begins at conception.
Abortion is always wrong as it is effectively ending a life - murder.
Unborn child = sacred
In no case would the RC church support abortion.
Humane Vitae 1968 - ‘Human life is sacred’
Declaration of procured abortion 1974 - ‘Abortion is a serious sin.’

Question 2

What does the C of E say about abortion?

Answer 2

Abortion should be avoided where possible.
Can be justified in 3 circumstances:
- risk to mother’s mental/physical health
- baby is likely to have a severe disability and mother does not think she will be able to cope
- rape
Can be the lesser of 2 evils.
If Jesus forgives people, then so should Christians.
C of E 1998 - ‘In an imperfect world the ‘right’ choice is sometimes the lesser of 2 evils’

Question 3

What does the Salvation Army say about abortion?

Answer 3

Life is sacred from the moment of conception
Abortion may be acceptable if:
- the mother’s life is in danger
- the baby can not survive for more than a few days `

Question 4

What does the United Reform Church say about abortion?

Answer 4

There is a difference between a foetus almost ready to be born, and one in the early stages of pregnancy.
Sometimes abortion is necessary, but should be taken seriously.

Question 5

What does the Methodist church say about abortion?

Answer 5

More liberal 
Lesser of 2 evils 
Abortion may be acceptable due to: 
- social circumstances of existing family 
- pregnancy being as a result of rape 
- mental/physical health of woman 
- foetus being severely handicapped