A
Statement on the FDA's Approval of RU-486
Issued by The LCMS Commission
on the Sanctity of Life through
the Rev. Dr. A. L. Barry, President of the Synod
ST. LOUIS, September
29 2000--It is with profound sorrow that we received news that the Food and
Drug Administration approved RU-486 for use in the United States. The Lutheran
Church--Missouri Synod, long a strong voice in support of defenseless human
life, from conception to natural death, continues to speak out against abortion.
Therefore we must speak out strongly against RU-486 as a great evil.
RU-486 will make it
easier for women to take the life of their own children and will both strengthen
and perpetuate the myth of our culture: that the unborn are not worthy of the
right to life. Such a view is a tragic consequence of a culture that places
personal convenience above personal responsibility. Our society devalues all
life when it is willing to deprive the most defenseless among us of life.
The approval of RU-486
provides Christians with the opportunity carefully to analyze the positions
being taken and promoted by candidates running for office at federal, state
and local levels. The elections to be held this November provide an opportunity
for Christians to act as citizens in support of defenseless human life.
Our church must continue
to declare that abortion is a sin, a violation of God's commandment, "You
shall not murder." Having made this point clearly, our church is equally
committed to holding out hope and help to women and families struggling with
these issues. We extend to all the forgiving love of Jesus Christ, whose blood
cleanses us from all sin.
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