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Email: "MENNONITE CHURCH (USA) ISSUES DRAFT DOCUMENT ON ABORTION"

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BY LifeSiteNews.com ELKHART, Ind., February 20, 2003 (LifeSiteNews.com) - The Mennonite Church USA Executive Board unanimously adopted a statement on abortion in January.  The statement—still in draft form to undergo another revision—will be sent to the Constituency Leaders’ Council (CLC), area conferences and other groups for feedback before delegates vote on its approval at Atlanta 2003 in July. While the Church comes out against abortion, noting that it is “counter to biblical principles,” it is divided over whether or not the matter should be addressed politically or legally.  One commentary section reads, “Because of the diversity of moral conviction in the civil community, we realize that what the law permits is not necessarily moral behavior for the Christian. We believe, however, that the church should witness to society concerning the general presumption against any human decision to terminate life. We do not assume society will conform to biblical standards. Nevertheless, we will offer counsel about alternatives to abortion to all.”  The Mennonite Church website reports that the eight-page statement includes four sections; beliefs of the church, confessions about areas the church needs to strengthen, detailed commentary and an updated recommended reading section. The document’s belief section states: “Human life is a gift from God to be valued and protected. Abortion runs counter to biblical principles. ... The fetus in its earliest stages (and even if imperfect by human standards) shares humanity with those who created it.  “Christians must provide viable alternatives to abortion that provide care and support for mothers and infants. The church should witness to society regarding the value of all human life. ... Professionals whose ministry involves dealing with the moral dilemmas of abortion and productive technologies need our support.”  While the statement says that “Abortion should not be used to interrupt unwanted pregnancies,” it seems open to exceptions not insisting, it says, “on uniformity for all.”  The document reads: “We urge members of the faith community to engage in a discerning process rather than making decisions in isolation. ... Through this process of mutual counsel and accountability, the church may promote a standard without insisting on uniformity for all.”  See the Mennonite Church USA news item:  http://www.mennonites.org/news/news/02_12_03.htm#1 http://www.lifesitenews.com/news/mennonite-church-usa-issues-draft-document-on-abortion/

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