Special to The Message
Indiana Catholic bishops released the following statement Oct. 1 regarding the discovery of more than 2,200 fetal remains of unborn children in the Illinois home of the late abortionist Dr. Ulrich “George” Klopfer.
The horrific discovery last month of more than 2,200 fetal remains of unborn children in the Illinois home of the late abortionist Dr. Ulrich “George” Klopfer, who performed abortions in northern Indiana since the 1970s, is appalling. We mourn the innocent lives lost and pray for all who are involved in the tragedy of abortion on demand. Direct abortion is not health care. It is the intentional killing of innocent and defenseless human beings and is never acceptable.
Innocent children are not the only victims, women and men are victims too. The wounds of abortion are deep, often resulting in emotional, psychological and spiritual suffering. The Catholic Church offers hope and healing to all who suffer from the pain of abortion and its aftermath through our post-abortion ministry, Project Rachel. In addition to post-abortion ministry, the Church supports pregnancy centers, such as Women’s Care Center, to provide support and help for mothers-to-be and new mothers needing help in caring for their newborn child.
All human life has dignity and deserves to be treated with respect from the moment of conception until natural death, including reverential handling of the dead. We trust Indiana authorities to properly and respectfully bury the unborn children following the state’s investigation. Furthermore, we pledge our support and assistance to ensure that dignity and proper disposal are accorded them.
Recognizing the dignity of all human life, the Church, in both prayer and action, seeks to end the scourge of direct abortion.
Most Reverend Charles C Thompson D.D., J.C.L.
Archdiocese of Indianapolis
Most Reverend Kevin C. Rhoades, D.D.
Diocese of Fort Wayne South Bend
Most Reverend Timothy L Doherty, S.T.L., PhD.
Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana
Most Reverend Joseph M Siegel D.D., S.T.L.
Diocese of Evansville
Reverend Michael J. Yadron
Diocesan Administrator
Diocese of Gary
Resources:
“The Life and Dignity of the Human Person” priority plan for 2010-2012.
Forgiveness and Healing after an Abortion, Susan E. Wills, Respect Life Program, 2013 (en español)
Project Rachel: In the Heart of the Church, USCCB, 2007 (en español)