WanderAimlessly:
These types of laws are passed frequently. Unfortunately, they are often declared “unconstitution” by the judicial oligarchy in the US. Hopefully, some state will defy them and declare that they have no say in state operations.
PF
Yes, it is true that this often happens, and in Utah it seems to happen alot.
I am gratified that this action is being taken, but as a Utah resident I have my doubts about its effectiveness.
As you may know, Utah is dominated by the LDS Church (Mormons). As a result most legislation that passes has the informal Imprimatur of the LDS church. Many think of the Mormons as being the ultimate in family oriented churches…
This is sadly not always the case. In matters of Alcohol and tobacco, sure, but abortion? I’m afraid not.
The Mormon church accepts abortion for a number of reasons.
The Church Handbook of Instructions, approved in September, 1998, states that abortion may be performed in the following circumstances: pregnancy resulting from rape or incest; a competent physician says the life or health of the mother is in serious jeopardy; or a competent physician says that the “fetus” has severe defects that will not allow the “baby” to survive beyond birth. In any case, the persons responsible must first consult with their church leader and receive God’s approval in prayer (156).
This same
Handbook, the official policies of the Mormon church to be followed by all local church leaders throughout the world, also claims: “It is a fact that a child has life before birth. However, there is no direct revelation on when the spirit enters the body” (156). Previous teachings by former Mormon prophets referred to the unborn child as “a child,” “a baby,” a “human being,” and decried abortion as “killing,” “a grievous sin,” “a damnable practice.” Spencer W. Kimball, the prophet who died in 1985, taught, “We have repeatedly affirmed the position of the church in unalterably opposing all abortions” (
Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, 189).
A further statement in the
Handbook says: “The church has not favored or opposed legislative proposals or public demonstrations concerning abortion (156).” While the Mormon prophet claims to speak the mind and will of God, he can neither figure out when the unborn child becomes human or if it is God’s desire that we protect the unborn unconditionally.
I pray that this bill will be approved.
