A major story hit the pro-life circuit today. The
“Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act” (H.R. 1797), passed the House of
Representatives. It imposes a 20-week gestational age limitation on abortion at
the point of development purported to be when babies are capable of feeling
pain. At the surface this vote appears to be a victory for the pro-life
community, but let’s take a closer look to make sure.
Incremental
Thinking
Much like
the morally noxious idea of relativism, incremental
thinking focuses on a particular detail of an issue and fails to
see the larger picture. Instead of thinking of babies as equally valuable individuals, who
all have a right to live, this mindset separates subcategories of
babies from the rest. In drawing a line in the sand to
make some appear more pertinent than others, younger babies are
cast aside. Those who are purported to feel pain (20
weeks) are singled out and the powers that be champion
their lives. But consider the testimony of Dr.
Maureen Condic, Associate Professor of Neurobiology and Adjunct Professor
of Pediatrics at the University of Utah School of Medicine. She has testified that the unborn child is capable of reacting
to pain as early as 8-10 weeks. So who do we charge with the
delineation? Where does that line really lie? And is that really the
issue at all?
Birgit
Jones is a 50-something cradle Catholic who is passionate about the pro-life
movement. She enthusiastically serves on the Diocesan Gospel of Life Committee
where she chairs pro-life events and writes pro-life articles. Birgit has been
married to her Catholic convert husband, Rick, for 37 years.
They have four
children and seven grandchildren (all age eight and under). Their frequent
visits eliminate any fear of an empty nest! Her vibrant Catholic faith colors
every aspect of her life. She also sings in the church choir with her husband
and daughter. Other interests include politics, as they relate to ‘Life’, and
Church liturgy as well as photography, cooking, and gardening. She can also be
found on her personal blog, Designs By Birgit.
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