I’d like to think that my personal view and the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are in harmony with regards to the subject of abortion. As the parents of five children, with one being born with physical limitations, my wife and I have always felt that to bring children into the world and then to nurture them in truth and righteousness is God inspired and a part of His eternal plan of happiness. To arbitrarily curtail life for selfish reasons is contrary to God’s will. Last week’s question dealt with “Spirituality or Religion” and the differences. Religion teaches the correct principle and the Spirit confirms the truth of that principle to the soul.; this is the case of abortion.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believes in the sanctity of human life. Therefore, the Church opposes elective abortion for personal or social convenience, and counsels its members not to submit to, perform, encourage, pay for, or arrange for such abortions. The Church allows for possible exceptions for its members when: pregnancy results from rape or incest, or a competent physician determines that the life or health of the mother is in serious jeopardy, or a competent physician determines that the fetus has severe defects that will not allow the baby to survive beyond birth.

The Church teaches its members that even these rare exceptions do not justify abortion automatically. Abortion is a most serious matter and should be considered only after the persons involved have consulted with their local church leaders and feel through personal prayer that their decision is correct. Thus, leaving room for both spirituality and religion.