Brief Reflection on JPII, Human Life, and the Purpose of Government

In his encyclical "Evangelium Vitae" Pope John Paul II wrote: "The real purpose of civil law is to guarantee an ordered social coexistence in true justice, so that all may 'lead a quiet and peaceful life, godly and respectful in every way' (1 Tim 2:2). Precisely for this reason, civil law must ensure that all members of society enjoy respect for certain fundamental rights which innately belong to the person, rights which every positive law must recognize and guarantee. First and most fundamental among these is the inviolable right to life of every human being. While public authority can sometimes choose not to put a stop to something which - were it prohibited - would cause more serious harm, it can never presume to legitimize as a right of individuals - even if they are the majority of the members of society - an offence against other persons caused by the disregard of so fundamental a right as the right to life. The legal toleration of abortion or of euthanasia can in no way claim to be based in respect for the conscience of others, precisely because society has the right and duty to protect itself against the abuses which can occur in the name of conscience and under the pretext of freedom." We cannot be blinded by moral relativism. Human Life starts at the beginning, at the moment of conception: this is an objective biological fact. Human Life is sacred and precious in all stages. Government is supposed to protect and defend the rights of all people, including those who are most helpless, i.e. the poor, the infirm, the elderly, the disabled, and the unborn - all those who are unable to protect and defend themselves. A government that does not do this is not serving its most important purpose.  We will never run out of things for which to pray. Today's Saturday: Joyful mysteries of the Rosary.