Wednesday, September 6, 2006

Bishop Cupich urges civil debate in South Dakota abortion referendum

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Bishop Blase J. Cupich of Rapid City has called for civil, reasoned public debate as South Dakota voters face a Nov. 7 referendum on legislation that would outlaw most abortions.

"The coming referendum presents an opportunity for South Dakota to model for the nation the manner in which substantial public debate regarding this volatile moral issue can be carried on with respect, honesty and conviction," Bishop Cupich wrote in the Sept. 11 issue of America, a national Catholic magazine published by the Jesuits in New York.

The referendum was initiated by supporters of legalized abortion after the South Dakota Legislature adopted a law that would ban all abortions except those necessary to save a mother's life.

Gov. Mike Rounds signed the legislation in March. In mid-June, less than two weeks before the law was to take effect, it was suspended because enough voters had signed petitions to force a popular referendum on it.

"Conflicting positions on abortion and public policy are deeply held and passionately argued," Bishop Cupich wrote. He said civility and clarity are especially important when passions run deep.
[snip] Catholic News Service

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Cupich having an article published in "America" is not a good sign.