In the context of Roman Catholicism, abortion is addressed in various Church doctrines and Papal Encyclicals. These documents represent official teachings and are intended to provide moral and theological guidance for Catholics. Here are key documents:
- Catechism of the Catholic Church: The Catechism presents the official teachings of the Catholic Church, including its stance on abortion. It states, “Since the first century, the Church has affirmed the moral evil of every procured abortion. This teaching has not changed and remains unchangeable. Direct abortion, that is to say, abortion willed either as an end or a means, is gravely contrary to the moral law.” (CCC 2271)
- Papal Encyclicals:
- Humanae Vitae (1968): In this encyclical, Pope Paul VI affirmed the Church’s prohibition on abortion, emphasizing the sanctity of life and the Church’s belief in the immorality of any act, including abortion, which deliberately terminates a potential human life.
- Evangelium Vitae (1995): Pope John Paul II further developed the Church’s stance on abortion in this encyclical, stating, “I declare that direct abortion, that is, abortion willed as an end or as a means, always constitutes a grave moral disorder, since it is the deliberate killing of an innocent human being.”
- Code of Canon Law: Canon Law is the system of laws and legal principles made and enforced by the Church’s hierarchical authorities. Canon 1398 of the 1983 Code of Canon Law states, “A person who procures a completed abortion incurs a latae sententiae excommunication,” meaning that the penalty is automatic upon commission of the act.
- Declaration on Procured Abortion (1974): This document issued by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith discusses and reaffirms the Church’s opposition to abortion in detail.
These doctrines and encyclicals help to shape the Church’s stance on abortion and provide guidance for Catholics. However, interpretation and application can vary, and many Catholics have diverse views on this issue, reflecting influences such as personal experiences, cultural context, and individual interpretations of faith and morality.