The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) has issued a statement on Motion 312, a bill that would create a commission to reexamine the law that states that “a child becomes a human being only at the moment of complete birth.” The bill was proposed by pro-life MP Stephen Woodworth; it is opposed by Conservative Prime Minister Stephen Harper, who says that the abortion issue is settled.
“The Catholic Church holds that a human being comes into existence at conception,” said Archbishop Richard Smith of Edmonton, the CCCB president. “The lives of human beings are, therefore, sacred at every stage in our existence -- from beginning to natural end.”
“As the House of Commons prepares to debate Motion 312, the Bishops of Canada invite all members of the Parliament of Canada to take into full account the sacredness of the unborn child and each human life,” Archbishop Smith added.
“We also encourage Canadian Catholics, and all people of good will, to pray that our legislators be blessed with wisdom and courage to do what is best to protect and further the common good, which is based on respect for the human dignity of all.”