U.S. Congressman Phil Gingrey, M.D.
Background
"The issue of stem cell research does not force us to choose between science and ethics, much less between science and religion. It presents a choice as to how our society will pursue scientific and medical progress. Will we ignore ethical norms and use some of the most vulnerable human beings as objects, undermining the respect for human life that is at the foundation of the healing arts? Such a course, even if it led to rapid technical progress, would be a regress in our efforts to build a society that is fully human. Instead we must pursue progress in ethically responsible ways that respect the dignity of each human being. Only this will produce cures and treatments that everyone can live with."
On Embryonic Stem Cell Research: A Statement of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, 2008
Action
- Support Adult Stem Cell Research
- Write to your legislators on the need for ethical research practices
- Host a Stem Cell seminar at your parish by contacting the Office of Advocacy and Justice. All seminars are FREE and will be scheduled to accommodate your parish. Click here to download the flyer.
Resources
Science and the Catholic Church (Adobe® Reader Required)
Call to Ban Human Cloning (Adobe® Reader Required)
Stem Cell Bulletin Inserts (Adobe® Reader Required)
Scientists on the meaning of the adult cell reprogramming (iPS cell) advance (Adobe® Reader Required)
Links
Florida Catholic Conference: Stem Cell and Research Ethics
National Catholic Bioethic Center
Center for Health Care Ethics
Children of God for Life
Stem Cell Research
The Case Against Funding Human Stem Cell Research
USCCB Statement on Embryonic Stem Cell Research June 2008
USCCB - Oppose Destructive Stem Cell Research
Cardinal Rigali Criticizes NIH Guidelines for Destructive Stem Cell Research
USCCB's Official Comment Letter of May 22, 2009
Improves Cardiac Function
Stem Cells and Muscle Regeneration
Repeated Social Teaching
The Catholic Church proclaims that human life is sacred and that the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral vision for society. All people are created in the image and likeness of God and thus all human life, at all stages, is sacred. This belief is the foundation and root to all the principles of our social teaching (Catholic Social Teaching or CST). In our society, human life is under direct attack from abortion and euthanasia. The value of human life is being threatened by cloning, embryonic stem cell research, and the use of the death penalty. We believe that every person is precious, that people are more important than things, and that the measure of every institution is whether it threatens or enhances the life and dignity of the human person.
