I REFER all readers to Federal Health Minister Tony Abbott’s recent comments relating to the tragic situation of abortion in this country.
He has called on Catholics to campaign for a change in abortion laws by stating ‘repeatedly and indefatigably’ the Church’s traditional position on the killing of children in the womb.
For Tony Abbott to come out and publicly make these statements is in my opinion a very commendable effort. Here we have a Catholic politician in charge of the government department that funds 75,000 abortions per year requesting public support for new legislation to reduce this overwhelming number.
I believe this represents a unique opportunity for Catholics and the wider pro-life community alike, an opportunity that is not to be missed.
Tony Abbott has extended his invitation to ‘let the world know that the Church hasn’t gone soft on this, or forgotten about it, or moved on from it’. He has stated that he would like to see a constituency for change, this constituency can only occur, however, if enough people make their position heard.
Accordingly, I strongly encourage all Catholics to write a letter of support to Mr Abbott as well as a letter to Prime Minister John Howard stating your position on this most urgent and relevant issue.
What is important is that the Federal Government gains a more accurate appreciation of the level and degree of public sentiment toward abortion, or more accurately, toward human life.
If a constituency for change is to become reality, the government and indeed society in general must be made aware that this pro-life sentiment is actually quite prevalent throughout the population, not merely confined to a few small, albeit vocal, special interest groups.
Therefore it is important for all Catholics to make an effort to be heard whilst remaining ever mindful of the fact that it is a sensitive issue demanding that charity and compassion be shown toward those affected.
The addresses to write to are: Minister Tony Abbott, Suite MG 43, Parliament House, Canberra, ACT, 2600 and Prime Minister John Howard, address as above with the exception of Suite MG 43.
G. HEMPEL
Tweed Heads, NSW
