1. Consistent Ethic of Life

2. Life Issues Today  In Catholicism, there isn’t a “Democratic” or “Republican”, “liberal” or “conservative” position; our respect of life transcends both political viewpoints  Protecting the life and dignity of all is something we are ALL called to do

3. What is the “Consistent Ethic of Life”?  Consistent Ethic of Life is term, coined by the late Joseph Cardinal Bernadin, to express an ethical, religious, and political ideology based on the premise that all human life is sacred and should be protected by law.  As Catholics, we believe in a consistent ethic of life that provides a “ seamless garment ” in regards to life. We use this consistent ethic of life to make decisions on life issues.

4. Why do we believe this?  God is the author of human life  God made us "in his image" and "likeness"  God has declared human life worthy of honor, glory, and respect  Being fully alive means reflecting God by loving God and one another  Life is seen as a gift from God, even Life that requires extra care

5. Balancing Consistent Life Ethic Issues Moral LawHuman Law Deposit of Faith Scripture (Divine Law) Tradition (Natural Law) Source of Law Executive Branch Legislative Branch Interpreters of Faith Magisterium Church Councils Church Documents Interpreters of Law Judicial Branch Supreme Court Federal Courts Objective Immutable (Doesn’t Change) Subjective Changes depending upon the times

6. Consistent Life Ethic Issues How do we (God’s Church) Differ from human law on:  Abortion  Homosexual Marriage  Premarital Cohabitation  Embryonic Stem Cell Research  Capitol Punishment  Assisted Suicide  Economic Injustice

7. In Conclusion Where life is involved, the service of charity must be profoundly consistent. It cannot tolerate bias and discrimination, for human life is sacred and inviolable at every stage and in every situation; it is an indivisible good. We need then to "show care" for all life and for the life of everyone. Indeed, at an even deeper level, we need to go to the very roots of life and love. (John Paul II, Evangelium Vitae, 87)