That They May Have Life

What do evangelical leaders Chuck Colson, founder of Prison Fellowship, pastor Bill Hybels of Willow Creek Community Church, pastor Rick Warren of Saddleback Church and Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, have in common with Catholic Church teaching?

Excitedly, I am happy to say a new document entitled "That They May Have Life."

The Ledger reports on the new statement which, in strong language, declares

The direct and intentional taking of innocent human life in abortion, euthanasia, assisted suicide, and embryonic research is rightly understood as murder.

The statement marks the sixth time that evangelical and Catholic leaders in the Evangelicals and Catholics Together network have issued a joint document. It comes at a time when conservative Protestants and Catholics have overcome theological differences in an effort to work together on causes of mutual concern, such as opposition to gay marriage and assisted suicide.

Now all that’s necessary is for both evangelical and Catholic leaders throughout North America to act like they truly believe these actions to be murder so that their congregations can be mobilized to protect human life through a change in our nations’ laws.

What would Christians be likely to do if they believed such a statement?

Hmmm….stuff like:

• Consistent preaching and teaching on a fundamental Christian doctrine, the sanctity of life, backed up by matching prayer efforts.

• Detailed education of church members including local, regional and national conferences and workshops on right to life issues and current laws.

• Local protests and demonstrations with special emphasis on National March for Life at nations’ capitals.

• Mobilize every Christian to make the issue of protection of human life a primary voting issue.

Just basic sensible stuff like that.

h/t LifeSiteNews