Addressing Issues of Life from the Pulpit

The release of the Planned Parenthood undercover videos has made a significant impact in the eyes of some pro-choice proponents and provides another opportunity for our pastors to address the subject of abortion from the pulpit. Unfortunately, there are many parish priests that continue to steer clear of the topic.

It’s difficult for me to understand why this is happening. The Catechism of the Catholic Church is very clear on the issue:

• “Since the first century the Church has affirmed the moral evil of every procured abortion. This teaching has not changed and remains unchangeable. Direct abortion, that is to say, abortion willed either as an end or a means, is gravely contrary to the moral law.” (2271)

• “Formal cooperation in an abortion constitutes a grave offense.” (2272)

• “Since it must be treated from conception as a person, the embryo must be defended in its integrity, cared for, and healed, as far as possible, like any other human being.” (2274)

Parishioners know abortion is a sin, but might not be aware that being silent, or believing others have the right to choose, is a form of cooperation, thus a grave offense. As our spiritual leaders, priests should be educating their flock, from the pulpit, that as followers of Christ, it is our responsibility to do all we can to protect the pre-born and reach out to women considering abortion. It’s also important to not alienate women who have had, as well as those complicit in an abortion. Priests should be sharing, from the pulpit, that even the sin of abortion will be forgiven to those who come to the Sacrament of Reconciliation with a repentant heart.

Today’s liberal society is difficult to navigate and our country’s current leadership is adept at manipulating the uninformed by distorting the truth, especially as it pertains to issues of life. As individuals, we all have the responsibility to be informed; however, the distorted truth is sometimes difficult to detect. Our priests are our first line of spiritual defense and should exposing the distortions and providing guidance on how to counter them.

I do not mean to be offensive or uncharitable. I have the utmost love and respect for our priests. I just think that although abortion is a very sensitive issue, it needs to be vigorously addressed. If every parish was on the same page and same mission…just think of the impact it would have!